Overview
Rodgersia sambucifolia is a perennial in the genus Rodgersia, part of the Saxifragaceae family. Rodgersia sambucifolia grows best in partial shade and full shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral and acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include shade gardens, woodland gardens, borders and ground cover. It is native to China.
About
Rodgersia sambucifolia is a perennial in the Saxifragaceae that performs well in partial to full shade. Native to China, it favours moist, rich, well-drained soil with a neutral to acidic pH. It is hardy (H5) in the UK and flowers in June to July.
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 sambucifolia is a shade-tolerant perennial from China, placed in the Saxifragaceae family and used where light levels are low. It establishes as a perennial clump and is valued for occupying shady ground where many flowering perennials struggle to set. Flowering occurs in June to July, giving a mid-summer display in otherwise shaded corners. Give it partial to full shade and a consistently moist, rich, well-drained soil; neutral to acidic conditions suit it best. The H5 hardiness rating means it is hardy in UK gardens and will withstand typical winter conditions when grown in an appropriate shaded position. Avoid exposed, dry sites: soil moisture is a key factor for long-term vigour. Use Rodgersia sambucifolia in shade gardens, woodland margins and the cooler parts of mixed borders, or as a ground cover beneath larger shrubs and trees where it can occupy space that sun-loving plants reject. Its mid-summer flowering period helps bridge the gap between spring bulbs and late-summer perennials, so place it where the flowers are visible from paths or seating areas rather than hidden at the back of a dense border.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Rodgersia
- Sunlight
- partial shade, full shade
- Soil type
- moist, rich, well-drained soil
- Soil pH
- neutral, acidic
- Soil moisture
- moist
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Rodgersia sambucifolia size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- shade gardens, woodland gardens, borders, ground cover
- Native to
- China
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Rodgersia sambucifolia
- Cultivation
- Prefers sheltered, shady positions with consistently moist soil; mulch to retain moisture.
- Pruning
- Remove dead or damaged leaves in spring; cut back old flower stems after flowering.
- Propagation
- division in spring or autumn, seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Rodgersia sambucifolia?
Prefers sheltered, shady positions with consistently moist soil; mulch to retain moisture.
Where is the best place to plant Rodgersia sambucifolia?
Rodgersia sambucifolia prefers partial shade and full shade.
What soil does Rodgersia sambucifolia need?
Rodgersia sambucifolia is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including moist, rich and well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Rodgersia sambucifolia?
Remove dead or damaged leaves in spring; cut back old flower stems after flowering.
Is Rodgersia sambucifolia hardy in the UK?
Rodgersia sambucifolia 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 sambucifolia?
Division in spring or autumn, seed.
