About
Hepatica nobilis var. japonica f. magna, the Japanese liverleaf, is a compact, slow-growing perennial to around 8 cm with semi-evergreen, leathery, lobed leaves. Bowl-shaped flowers to 2.5 cm across in shades of pink, purple or white are borne in spring. One of the most sought-after of all woodland perennials among Japanese hepatica enthusiasts.
About the genus
Hepatica are small, clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennials with three- to five-lobed leaves and anemone-like, blue, violet, pink or white flowers in early spring. Choice woodland plants valued for their early-season colour.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Alpine Rockery
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toJapan
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in humus-rich soils and thrives in heavier soils. Top dress annually in autumn with leaf mould. Resents root disturbance
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in an open frame, as soon as ripe, or by division in spring. Transplants and divisions are slow to establish
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free