About
A herbaceous perennial, up to 40cm high, with spreading rhizomes and broadly heart-shaped, thin, glossy green leaves. Clusters of creamy white flowers are produced in early summer, followed by small, round, mottled green berries that ripen to red.
About the genus
Maianthemum are rhizomatous perennials with erect or arching stems bearing alternate leaves and small star-shaped flowers in terminal racemes or panicles, followed by red berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationThrives in humus-rich, moist but well drained, neutral to acid soil, in light or deep shade. Ideal for a woodland garden or shady border
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown as soon as ripe, or by division in early spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails on young growth
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free