Podophyllum pleianthum | Chinese Mayapple
DESCRIPTION
Podophyllum pleianthum, commonly known as Chinese mayapple, offers lush, umbrella-like leaves that add a bold, tropical texture to shaded gardens. In late spring to early summer, the plant produces rich maroon-red flowers that dangle beneath the foliage, creating hidden gems of color. These blossoms have a unique charm and are often only spotted by curious gardeners peering under the large, glossy leaves.
Native to China, Podophyllum pleianthum has been admired for its dramatic foliage and hidden blooms, making it a favorite among shade garden enthusiasts. The flowers eventually give way to small, round, red fruit that add further visual interest as they ripen. This perennial’s exotic look and hardy nature make it an excellent choice for woodland gardens or shaded borders, where it can create a lush, layered effect when combined with ferns and other shade-loving perennials.
DESCRIPTION
Podophyllum pleianthum, commonly known as Chinese mayapple, offers lush, umbrella-like leaves that add a bold, tropical texture to shaded gardens. In late spring to early summer, the plant produces rich maroon-red flowers that dangle beneath the foliage, creating hidden gems of color. These blossoms have a unique charm and are often only spotted by curious gardeners peering under the large, glossy leaves.
Native to China, Podophyllum pleianthum has been admired for its dramatic foliage and hidden blooms, making it a favorite among shade garden enthusiasts. The flowers eventually give way to small, round, red fruit that add further visual interest as they ripen. This perennial’s exotic look and hardy nature make it an excellent choice for woodland gardens or shaded borders, where it can create a lush, layered effect when combined with ferns and other shade-loving perennials.
DESCRIPTION
Podophyllum pleianthum, commonly known as Chinese mayapple, offers lush, umbrella-like leaves that add a bold, tropical texture to shaded gardens. In late spring to early summer, the plant produces rich maroon-red flowers that dangle beneath the foliage, creating hidden gems of color. These blossoms have a unique charm and are often only spotted by curious gardeners peering under the large, glossy leaves.
Native to China, Podophyllum pleianthum has been admired for its dramatic foliage and hidden blooms, making it a favorite among shade garden enthusiasts. The flowers eventually give way to small, round, red fruit that add further visual interest as they ripen. This perennial’s exotic look and hardy nature make it an excellent choice for woodland gardens or shaded borders, where it can create a lush, layered effect when combined with ferns and other shade-loving perennials.
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Family: Berberidaceae
Height: 2-3 feet tall
Width: 2-3 feet wide
Foliage color: Glossy, dark green with large, umbrella-shaped leaves
Flower color: Dark red to maroon flowers, often hidden beneath foliage
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light requirements: Partial to full shade
Water requirements: Medium to high
Maintenance: Low; requires minimal care
Growing zone: USDA Zones 5-9
Wildlife attractors: Attracts pollinators; berries attract birdsThis plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
