Overview

Paris polyphylla is a clump forming, spreading branched herbaceous perennial in the genus Paris, part of the Melanthiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Paris polyphylla grows best in full shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. It is low maintenance.

About

Paris polyphylla is a species of flowering plant native to China, the Indian subcontinent, and Indochina. It produces spider-like flowers that throw out long, thread-like, yellowish green petals throughout most of the warm summer months and into the autumn. In the fall, the flowers are followed by small, scarlet berries. It is a perennial, which slowly spreads, is fully hardy in Britain, and survives in leafy, moist soil in either complete or partial shade. It grows to around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, carrying deciduous foliage. Grow it in full shade and most soil types. It tolerates acid and neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and east-facing and north-facing aspects.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Paris polyphylla

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Paris

Sunlight
Full shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing
Exposure
Sheltered

Plant details

Paris polyphylla size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming, Spreading branched
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Paris polyphylla?

Paris polyphylla prefers full shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Paris polyphylla need?

Paris polyphylla is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Paris polyphylla grow?

Paris polyphylla reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

More in the Paris genus

Browse all Paris