Overview
Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Rodgersia, part of the Saxifragaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' grows best in full shade, full sun and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden.
About
Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' is a clump-forming perennial characterized by its substantial, bronze-tinged, pinnate foliage, which features leaflets reaching up to 20 cm long. In the summer months, it produces panicles of small, vibrant pink blooms.
About the genus
Rodgersia are herbaceous perennials that thrive in moist conditions and grow from rhizomes. They feature attractive foliage, which can be either pinnately or palmately divided, often with interesting coloration. In summer, they produce small, star-like flowers arranged in large conical clusters, which continue to be visually appealing even after they have set fruit.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Rodgersia
- Sunlight
- Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial, Bogs
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba'
- Cultivation
- Grows best in deep, fertile reliably moist soils in full sun or partial shade but can tolerate full shade. Protect from cold drying winds
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in spring
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba'?
Grows best in deep, fertile reliably moist soils in full sun or partial shade but can tolerate full shade. Protect from cold drying winds.
Where is the best place to plant Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba'?
Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' prefers full shade, full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' need?
Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' grows best in clay and loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.
How do I prune Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba'?
Cut back after flowering.
How big does Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' grow?
Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' hardy in the UK?
Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba'?
Propagate by division in spring.