Overview

Glaucidium palmatum is a perennial in the genus Glaucidium, part of the Ranunculaceae family. Glaucidium palmatum grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic to neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include woodland garden and shade garden. It is native to C & N Japan.

About

Glaucidium palmatum is a perennial in the Ranunculaceae that produces its flowers in May to June. It prefers a sheltered, partially shaded position in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Native to central and northern Japan, it suits shaded and semi-shaded sites where soil remains evenly damp. Plant it where spring flowering in shade is required.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Glaucidium palmatum

In the garden

Glaucidium palmatum is a perennial member of the buttercup family, native to central and northern Japan. In the UK it is best regarded as a woodland/ shade specialist, occupying sheltered, semi-shaded corners where soils are rich in organic matter. Set plants into moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil with an acidic to neutral pH and avoid exposed, sunny sites. A position in partial shade or shaded aspect protects the crown and preserves the consistently moist conditions it prefers; apply a mulch of leaf mould or well-rotted compost to help retain moisture and build humus. The H5 hardiness rating means it is hardy in most UK gardens provided it has shelter from drying winds and late frosts. Use Glaucidium palmatum in woodland gardens or beneath deciduous trees where dappled light and steady soil moisture are available. Expect flowering in May to June; the plant's spring display works well tucked into a shaded border or alongside spring bulbs where the low light and humus-rich soil suit it.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Glaucidium

Sunlight

partial shade

Soil type

moist, well-drained, humus-rich

Soil pH

acidic to neutral

Soil moisture

moist

Aspect

shaded or semi-shaded

Exposure

sheltered

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Glaucidium palmatum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Suggested uses

woodland garden, shade garden

Native to

C & N Japan

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Glaucidium palmatum

Cultivation

Prefers cool, shaded conditions with moist, humus-rich soil. Avoid direct sunlight and dry conditions.

Propagation

seed, division

Frequently asked questions