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Key characteristics

Family: Berberidaceae
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Width: 2 to 3 feet
Flower color: Red to burgundy
Foliage color: Mottled green with dark maroon spots
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low
Wildlife: Shade-loving pollinators

Perennials

Podophyllum versipelle ‘Spotty Dotty’

Chocolate Spotted Chinese Mayapple

Podophyllum versipelle 'Spotty Dotty', commonly known as Chocolate Spotted Chinese Mayapple, is an impressive perennial prized for its unique, mottled foliage and intriguing flowers. This woodland plant features large, umbrella-like leaves adorned with dark maroon spots, giving it a distinctive, exotic appearance. Each leaf can measure up to 12-14 inches across, emerging in spring with a bronze tint and maturing to their characteristic green and spotted pattern.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Shade Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums · Hostas · Bleeding hearts · Solomon's seal

Design tip

The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.