About
A clump-forming perennial with short-stalked, oval leaves up to 20cm long and arching sprays of hanging, tubular, green then cream flowers, followed by berries ripening 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 sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toChina Myanmar Vietnam
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
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, lime-free, moist but well-drained soil in partial or full shade. Shelter from cold winds
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in autumn, or by division of rhizomes in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free