Overview
Chloranthus fortunei is a columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Chloranthus, part of the Chloranthaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Chloranthus fortunei grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden. It is native to China.
About
Chloranthus fortunei is a herbaceous perennial characterized by its purple-black stems, which each bear a whorl of leaves. In spring, the leaves emerge with a deep purple hue, transitioning to a rich green as summer arrives. From late spring to early summer, this plant produces clusters of white, tassel-like flowers that rise above the foliage.
About the genus
Chloranthus comprises herbaceous perennials or sub-shrubs characterized by leaves that grow in pairs or whorls. The plants produce upright or drooping clusters of small, petal-less flowers that can be white or yellow, which are succeeded by berries that may be green, red, or white.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Chloranthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Chloranthus fortunei size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- China
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Chloranthus fortunei
- Cultivation
- Grow in moist but well-drained soil in sun for best colour, or semi-shade
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Chloranthus fortunei?
Grow in moist but well-drained soil in sun for best colour, or semi-shade.
Where is the best place to plant Chloranthus fortunei?
Chloranthus fortunei prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Chloranthus fortunei need?
Chloranthus fortunei is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Chloranthus fortunei?
No pruning required.
How big does Chloranthus fortunei grow?
Chloranthus fortunei reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Chloranthus fortunei hardy in the UK?
Chloranthus fortunei has a UK hardiness rating of H4.
How do I propagate Chloranthus fortunei?
Propagate by division.