Overview
Streptopus amplexifolius is a perennial herb in the genus Streptopus, part of the Liliaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Streptopus amplexifolius grows best in full shade, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to North America, Europe and Asia.
About the genus
Streptopus is a Eurasian and North American genus of flowering plants in the lily family, found primarily in colder and temperate regions. Members of the genus are often referred to as twistedstalk. It is one of the shade-loving genera of the lily family.
Wikipedia contributors, "Streptopus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Streptopus
In the garden
Streptopus amplexifolius (liver berry) is a perennial herb native to North America, Europe and Asia, known for stems that kink at each leaf axil and for leaves that clasp the stem. The nodding greenish-white flowers are produced in May to June and sit discreetly beneath the foliage rather than above it. Grow it in full shade on sandy or loamy soil that remains moist but drains freely; avoid waterlogged pockets. It is rated H7 in the UK, meaning it is fully hardy through British winters, and corresponds to USDA zones 4–8, so it tolerates a wide range of temperate conditions provided the site is shaded and reliably damp. Plant crowns at existing soil level, keep a steady supply of moisture while establishing and mulch with leaf litter to retain dampness and supply slow-release nutrients. In a UK garden position it suits shaded margins, woodland clearings, or the damp soil beside streams and ponds where its height (around 1.0 m) will tuck beneath trees and shrubs. The plant’s clasping leaves and kinked stems are diagnostic at close range, and its May–June flowers are modest but botanically interesting for understorey schemes.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Streptopus
- Sunlight
- Full shade
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- shade
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Streptopus amplexifolius size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Native to
- North America, Europe, Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Streptopus amplexifolius
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Streptopus amplexifolius?
Streptopus amplexifolius prefers full shade. It suits shade positions.
What soil does Streptopus amplexifolius need?
Streptopus amplexifolius grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Streptopus amplexifolius grow?
Streptopus amplexifolius reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Streptopus amplexifolius hardy in the UK?
Streptopus amplexifolius has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Streptopus amplexifolius?
Seed, division.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
