There are fourth dimension when , as an avidcollector , I see a special flora for the first time and feel a desire start to gurgle up . I try urgently not to say out flash , “ I must have this plant , ” but inside I ’m smitten with works luxuria . This is exactly how I feel when I saw ‘ Spotty Dotty ’ May apple . I have always been a sucker forbig leaves , and this perennial Podophyllum peltatum did not let down .
The unusual angulate , rounded leaves emerge from the ground in midspring appearing like waxy , closed umbrellas and then promptly open to about 8 to 12 inches wide and even a little magnanimous in rich soil . As the leaves full expand atop deep red stems , Bourgogne chocolate musca volitans cover the pea green surface , leave a vibrant whitish immature button in the essence . The overall effect is arresting . The most intense coloring of the leaves is in bounce , but the foliage is attractive through the entire growing season .
This spectacular plant contain one more surprise for those who are observing . Once the leave are fully developed , a few of the most ripe stems develop challenging flowers hidden under their foliar canopy . The blooms are formed in modest clusters and have bass cherry-red , strappy petaled blooms that drop gracefully from their hidden perch . The flowers do not last long , so be sure to take a peek regularly in late spring to catch the show .
‘ Spotty Dotty ’ is easy to get . It prefer bright clear shade or dappled light . This robust perennial is a punishing feeder , so mix plenty of organic matter into the planting hole , and mulch in winter or other spring with a open , fertile compost . Like most wild mandrake , ‘ Spotty Dotty ’ grow salutary with regular watering during ironical weather and will boom in a damp forest situation .
Once plant , it will take a few years to settle into its raw fix . Be patient , since you may not see much growing the first yr ; in the second twelvemonth , however , you should see much larger leaves form . In my experience , this plant will typically remain a adorable ball for three to five age ; once it is well established , it will commence to spread and become a settlement extend 6 to 8 feet across . If this is too wide , it is easy to dig up errant sprouts to apportion with friends .
Although ‘ Spotty Dotty ’ can be difficult to find , it is well worth the search . It is the perfect plant to add up a footling striking flair to the tincture garden .
‘Spotty Dotty’ mayapple
Podophyllum‘Spotty Dotty’
Zones:6–9
Conditions : Partial to full shade ; moist , humous - ample , well - drained soil
Native range : China , Japan
Richie Steffen is a bestow editor and the executive theater director of the Elisabeth C. Miller Botanical Garden in Seattle .
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