Overview
Rodgersia pinnata is a perennial in the genus Rodgersia, part of the Saxifragaceae family. It typically grows around 1.2 metres tall. Rodgersia pinnata grows best in partial shade and full shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, woodland gardens and shade gardens. It is native to W China.
About
Rodgersia pinnata is a perennial in the Saxifragaceae characterised by large, featherlike pinnate leaves and upright growth to about 1.2 metres. It flowers in the UK from June to July. Plant in partial to full shade on moist, rich, well-drained soil in a sheltered position. It carries an H5 hardiness rating, meaning it is considered hardy in most UK gardens.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rodgersia pinnata
About the genus
Rodgersia is a genus of flowering plants in the Saxifragaceae family. Rodgersia are herbaceous perennials originating from east Asia.
Wikipedia contributors, "Rodgersia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rodgersia
In the garden
Rodgersia pinnata originates from western China and is grown for its bold pinnate foliage and summer flower display. In the UK it flowers in June to July and forms a clump that reaches roughly 1.2 metres in height, making leaf texture the primary feature through much of the season. Give Rodgersia pinnata a position in partial to full shade where soil remains moist and rich but drains freely; it tolerates a wide soil pH from acidic through neutral to alkaline. Siting in a sheltered spot reduces wind damage to the tall flower stems and helps conserve soil moisture. Its hardiness rating of H5 indicates it is hardy across most of the UK, though exposed sites are best avoided. Use this perennial at the back of a shaded border, in a woodland-style planting or a dedicated shade garden where its scale and leaf form can be read against finer-leaved companions. Allow enough room for a plant to reach around 1.2 metres so the pinnate leaves can develop into a clear architectural clump rather than becoming crowded by neighbours.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Rodgersia
- Sunlight
- partial shade, full shade
- Soil type
- moist, rich, well-drained
- Soil pH
- acidic, neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Rodgersia pinnata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Height
- 1.2 metres
- Suggested uses
- borders, woodland gardens, shade gardens
- Native to
- W China
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Rodgersia pinnata
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, humus-rich soil in partial to full shade. Avoid dry conditions.
- Pruning
- Remove dead or damaged leaves in spring; cut back after flowering to maintain shape.
- Propagation
- Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but slow.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Rodgersia pinnata?
Prefers moist, humus-rich soil in partial to full shade. Avoid dry conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Rodgersia pinnata?
Rodgersia pinnata prefers partial shade and full shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Rodgersia pinnata need?
Rodgersia pinnata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including moist, rich and well-drained. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Rodgersia pinnata?
Remove dead or damaged leaves in spring; cut back after flowering to maintain shape.
How big does Rodgersia pinnata grow?
Rodgersia pinnata reaches a height of 1.2 metres.
Is Rodgersia pinnata hardy in the UK?
Rodgersia pinnata has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Rodgersia pinnata?
Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but slow.
