Overview

Boehmeria platanifolia is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Boehmeria, part of the Urticaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Boehmeria platanifolia grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and flower borders and beds.

About

Boehmeria platanifolia, commonly known as sycamore-leaf false nettle, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Urticaceae family. It grows to between 1 and 1.5 metres in height and spread, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. This deciduous plant thrives in moist but well-drained soils, including clay, loam, and sand, with acid to neutral pH. It prefers sheltered positions in full or partial shade, suitable for all garden aspects. Boehmeria platanifolia is of interest during spring and summer seasons.

About the genus

Boehmeria is a genus of 47 species of flowering plants in the nettle family Urticaceae. Of the species, 33 are indigenous to the Old World and 14 to the New World; no species is indigenous to both the Old and New Worlds. The species include herbaceous perennials, shrubs and small trees.

Wikipedia contributors, "Boehmeria", CC BY-SA 4.0Boehmeria

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Boehmeria

Sunlight
Full shade, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Boehmeria platanifolia size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1-1.5 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Boehmeria platanifolia

Propagation
Seed, Division in spring
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Boehmeria platanifolia?

Boehmeria platanifolia prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Boehmeria platanifolia need?

Boehmeria platanifolia is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Boehmeria platanifolia grow?

Boehmeria platanifolia reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 1-1.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Boehmeria platanifolia hardy in the UK?

Boehmeria platanifolia has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Boehmeria platanifolia?

Seed, Division in spring.

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