Overview

Deinanthe bifida is a perennial in the genus Deinanthe, part of the Hydrangeaceae family. It typically grows around 0.4 m tall. Deinanthe bifida grows best in full shade, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include shade gardens, woodland gardens and ground cover. It is native to Japan.

About

Deinanthe bifida is a perennial in the Hydrangeaceae that thrives in full shade and sheltered spots. It remains compact at about 0.4 m high and prefers moist but well-drained sandy or loamy soils. Native to Japan, it suits woodland and shaded garden sites. Use it where a low, leafy ground cover is required.

About the genus

Deinanthe is a genus consisting of a few species of rare herbaceous-habit rhizomatous plants found in the mountain woodlands of East Asia, ranging from China to Japan. They are handsome clump-forming perennials good for shade, woodland and rock gardens.

In the garden

A shade specialist from Japan, Deinanthe bifida belongs to the Hydrangeaceae and grows as a low perennial to around 0.4 m. It is happiest out of direct sun in sheltered, shady aspects and is rated H6 for UK hardiness (very hardy); it also corresponds to USDA zones 6–9. Plant into moist but well-drained soil with a sandy or loamy texture and keep the site sheltered from strong exposure. Although it prefers consistently damp conditions, avoid waterlogging; good drainage is important in heavier soils. Planting at the same soil level as the nursery container and applying an organic mulch will help retain moisture without smothering the crown. In a UK garden it performs well in shade and woodland borders, beneath trees where it can act as ground cover, or in a cool, shaded mixed border. At roughly 0.4 m tall it fills low gaps where taller perennials or shrubs cast shade. Position Deinanthe bifida where it will receive continuous shade and shelter so it can establish a steady, low-growing presence in the darkest corners of the garden.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Deinanthe

Sunlight

Full shade

Soil type

Sandy, Loamy

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

Aspect

Shade

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H6

Plant details

Deinanthe bifida size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Perennial

Height

0.4 m

Suggested uses

Shade gardens, woodland gardens, ground cover

Native to

Japan

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Deinanthe bifida

Cultivation

Prefers humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil in shaded, sheltered locations; avoid direct sun and dry conditions.

Pruning

Remove dead or damaged foliage in spring; no heavy pruning required.

Propagation

Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation is possible but slow.

Frequently asked questions