About
A rhizomatous perennial with variegated hexagonal or star-shaped leaves, symmetrically marbled and spotted in a mix of dark, mid- and pale, silvery green. Narrow, hanging, dark red flowers appear in clusters under the leaves in early summer, followed by yellow fruit.
About the genus
Podophyllum are rhizomatous perennials with lobed leaves, varying in shape from hexagon to starburst, with a central stem. The leaves are thick and textured, with prominent veins and often marbled or mottled in shades of green and brown. The flowers are cup- or bell-shaped, upright or hanging, in red, pink or white, and may be followed by red or yellow fruit
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, North-facing, East-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 usesCity and courtyard gardens, Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Sub-tropical
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in humus-rich, leafy, moist soil in full or partial shade, sheltered from wind
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or late summer
Pest resistanceEmerging leaves may be damaged by slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free