About
Mandragora officinarum, the common mandrake, is a stemless perennial with a thick, fleshy taproot producing a flat rosette of dark-green leaves to 30 cm long. In spring, bell-shaped, greenish-white flowers flushed purple appear in the centre of the rosette, followed by rounded, yellow fruits. A fascinating and historically significant plant for a sheltered, sunny border.
About the genus
Mandragora, the mandrakes, are stemless perennials with large, fleshy taproots forming rosettes of broad leaves. In spring, clusters of bell-shaped flowers appear in the centre of the rosette, followed by fleshy, round fruits. Historically associated with medicine and folklore.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Rock garden
Native toS Europe
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats) TOXIC if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in deep, well-drained soil in a warm, sunny position, protected from cold, drying wind and excessive winter wet. Avoid disturbance once established
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown as soon as ripe or in autumn or root cuttings taken in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free