Gillenia trifoliata

Overview

Bowman’s root is a perennial native to eastern North America, including southern Ontario. It grows in rocky woodland settings and is described as reaching two to four feet. Green leaves divide into three pointed, toothed leaflets and can turn red in autumn.

Loose flower sprays appear in late spring and early summer. Each flower has five narrow, unequal white petals, sometimes faintly pink, on slender red stems. Red calyces remain after the petals fall. The university account notes butterfly and other pollinator visits.

Origins & earliest records

University account

Evidence & interpretation

Account and photographs.

Selected bibliography

Documented works and useful reading. This is not a list of every appearance.

1. 01

   Gillenia trifoliata

   NC State Extension

Family & connections

A source-supported family tree or inspiration record has not yet been compiled for this profile. Related reading below indicates a connection in subject matter, not a proven lineage or creative influence.

References

Sources supporting this profile. Linked pages have their own scope and editorial standards.

1. Botanical accountGillenia trifoliataResearch access: 2026-10-23

Image credits

A woodland perennial with loose white flower sprays.

AI-generated interpretation. No source photograph reuse.