About
A rhizomatous perennial to 75cm producing star-shaped, six- to ten-lobed, glossy leaves up to 35cm across. Clusters of hanging, cup-shaped, deep red or purple flowers are produced below the leaves in summer, followed by deep red 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
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Sub-tropical
Native toC & SE China
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. In cold areas protect over winter with a dry mulch
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in an open frame as soon as ripe, or by division in spring or late summer
Pest resistanceEmerging leaves are susceptible to slug damage
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free