About
A herbaceous perennial with purple-black stems, each supporting a single whorl of leaves that open deep purple in spring then mature to intense green in summer. From late spring to early summer pairs of white, tassel-like flowers are produced above the leaves.
About the genus
Chloranthus are herbaceous perennials or sub-shrubs with leaves arranged in pairs or whorls. Upright or hanging sprays of small, white or yellow, petal-less flowers are followed by green, red or white berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toChina
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained soil in sun for best colour, or semi-shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free