About
A creeping, rhizomatous perennial with narrow, pointed leaves that clasp upright stems, to about 60cm tall. Small sprays of white, star-shaped, lightly-scented flowers appear in late spring and early summer followed by berries that start off green with black stripes, turning red with black stripes then black.
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
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toNorth America
FragranceFlower
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 shade. Shelter from cold winds. Can spread
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