About
Hepatica transsilvanica, the large blue hepatica, is a compact perennial to 15 cm with broad, long-stalked, three-lobed, crenate leaves and lavender-blue, rarely white, anemone-like flowers to 3�4 cm across in early spring. One of the most garden-worthy and free-flowering of all hepaticas for a shaded border.
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
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy, Clump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, City and courtyard gardens
Native toC Romania
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in humus-rich soils and thrives in heavier soils. Top dress annually in autumn with leaf mould. Resent 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