Large-flowered Trillium
The white trillium has been Ontario's provincial floral emblem since 1937. It's white blossom is associated with peace and hope.
The plant contains tannic acid and saponin and was used by natives and settlers of North America as an antiseptic, and a tonic expectorant. The leaves were boiled in lard and applied to ulcers as a poultice, and to restrict gangrene. The roots were used to ease fevers and diarrhea. A less frequently used common name for the plant, ‘birthroot', originated from its use to promote parturition. Berries are not edible.