S. trifolia rises from a slender rootstock, a stem 6 to 18 inches high, bearing, generally, 3 oblong leaves, sessile, and sheathing at base. Flower rather large, with an open, at length reflexed, 6divided perianth, 6 stamens, 1 ovary, and style. Berries, dark red.

In wet, boggy woods from Maine to Pennsylvania, westward to Michigan.