About
Podophyllum peltatum, the May apple, is a rhizomatous perennial with creeping rhizomes producing upright, pale, fleshy stems topped by glossy, deeply lobed, umbrella-like leaves to 30 cm across. Stems carrying two leaves also produce a single, nodding, aromatic, waxy-white flower in the leaf axil, followed by oval fruit, green at first, ripening to yellow. A fascinating woodland perennial for a shaded, moist, humus-rich border.
About the genus
Podophyllum are rhizomatous perennials with lobed, often mottled leaves on umbrella-like stems and cup- or bell-shaped, upright or nodding flowers in red, pink or white, followed by red or yellow fruit. Grown in shaded, moist, humus-rich borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toE North America
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. 13376,poecilanthe-parviflora,Poecilanthe parviflora,,Poecilanthe parviflora is a small-flowered
Care notes
CultivationThrives in humus-rich, moist soil in part or full shade; ideal for a woodland garden
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown as soon as ripe, or by division in spring or late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs on young growth
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free