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
- Hepatica americanaAmerican liverwort

- Hepatica insularis

- Hepatica maximagiant liverleaf

- Hepatica nobilis 'Arindy'
- Hepatica nobilis 'Landquart Marble'
- Hepatica nobilis 'Lilac Picotee'
- Hepatica nobilis 'Lotus'
- Hepatica nobilis 'Picos Purple'liverleaf 'Picos Purple'