Overview

Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d) is a clump forming alpine rockery in the genus Hepatica, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d) grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants and rock garden.

About

Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' is a clump-forming perennial belonging to the genus Hepatica, known for its compact growth and semi-evergreen, lobed foliage. This cultivar thrives in partial shade and prefers fertile, well-drained soils that are moist but not waterlogged, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand with neutral to alkaline pH. It is hardy to UK zone H6 and suitable for a variety of garden settings such as rock gardens, city courtyards, and informal cottage gardens. 'Shizuka' flowers in spring and summer, adding seasonal interest with blooms reminiscent of anemones.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Hepatica

Sunlight
Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Alpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d)

Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in an open frame, as soon as ripe, or by division in spring. Transplants and divisions are slow to establish
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d)?

Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d) prefers partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d) need?

Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d) hardy in the UK?

Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d) has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Hepatica nobilis var. japonica 'Shizuka' (9/d)?

Propagate by seed sown in an open frame, as soon as ripe, or by division in spring. Transplants and divisions are slow to establish.

More in the Hepatica genus

Browse all Hepatica