About
Large umbels of clusters of tiny white flowers, flushed with purple at the base, appear in summer and autumn. A rare, clump-forming perennial with spreading, lacy, fern-like green foliage on stout, purple-flushed green stems. Seedheads provide winter interest.
About the genus
A genus of flowering perennials, native to the Himalayas, China and Myanmar, with feathery, divided green foliage and umbels of white flowers on tall stems
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Architectural
Native toAsia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningRemove faded flowerheads and cut back dying foliage in autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe; prick out into deep containers to avoid tap root damage. Propagate by division in early spring but take care as it resents disturbance
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews in dry conditions