About

Spotty Dotty' is a rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial with large, umbrella-shaped leaves that have pointed lobes and are heavily-spotted with bronze, particularly in spring. Dark red, hanging, narrow, bell-shaped flowers appear below the leaves in late spring or early summer.

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 hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
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
PropagationDivide in spring or late summer
Pest resistanceEmerging leaves may be damaged by slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free