Overview
Phytolacca insularis is a columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Phytolacca, part of the Phytolaccaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Phytolacca insularis grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and clay soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden.
About
Phytolacca insularis is a cultivar of the Phytolacca genus, which includes herbaceous perennials, shrubs, or trees with simple leaves and small flowers in spike-like racemes that develop into glossy, fleshy fruits. This cultivar has a columnar upright habit and deciduous foliage, making it suitable for cottage and informal gardens. It thrives in fertile, well-drained loam or clay soils with a range of pH levels, in full sun or partial shade, ideally in a sheltered, south-, west-, or east-facing position. It is hardy to UK zone H7 and is best propagated by seed sown in early spring, with interest during spring and summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Phytolacca
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Phytolacca insularis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Phytolacca insularis
- Propagation
- Seed in early spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to virus diseases
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Phytolacca insularis?
Phytolacca insularis prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Phytolacca insularis need?
Phytolacca insularis grows best in loam and clay soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Phytolacca insularis hardy in the UK?
Phytolacca insularis has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Phytolacca insularis?
Seed in early spring.
More in the Phytolacca genus
- Phytolaccapokeweed
- Phytolacca acinosaIndian pokeweed
- Phytolacca dioicabella sombra
- Phytolacca esculenta
- Phytolacca icosandra Purpurascens Group