Dysosma (Podophyllum Pleianthum)

Dysosma

Features and Characteristics

Podophyllum pleianthum, commonly called Chinese mayapple, is native to central and southeastern China. This is a shade loving, clump-forming perennial that typically grows to 18-24″ tall. Each plant bears a single stem crowned with one or two, large, very glossy, shallowly-lobed (6-10 lobes each), umbrella-shaped leaves (to 12-16″ wide). From the crotch (leaf axil) on two leaved plants, a pendulous cluster (5-9 flowers each) of large, nodding, bell-shaped, malodorous, maroon-red flowers blooms in spring (May). Flowers are quite showy, but unfortunately are usually hidden beneath the large leaves. Flowers give way to berry-shaped fruits that mature to yellow or red. Synonymous with and at one time know as Dysosma pleiantha.

Genus name comes from the Greek words pous or podos meaning a foot and phyllon meaning a leaf with reference to the shape of the leaf in the American species P. peltatum.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in moist, acidic, organically rich, leafy, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. With consistent and even moisture, the leaves of this mayapple usually remain attractive in the garden until first fall frost (unlike P. peltatum of eastern North American which goes dormant in summer). Avoid dry soils. Plants will spread by rhizomes over time. Plants may self-seed in the garden.

Dysosma (Podophyllum Pleianthum) Requirements

Hardiness zone	6 - 8
Sun light	Part Shade To Full Shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Protect from spring frosts. Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.

Uses

Shady areas of borders, rock gardens, cottage gardens and woodland areas. Elevated plantings, such as along a bank, permit easier viewing of the flowers and fruits.

Dysosma (Podophyllum Pleianthum) Details

Common name	Dysosma
Botanical name	Podophyllum Pleianthum
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Berberidaceae
Hardiness zone	6 - 8
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Maroon Red
Flowering period	April - May
Height	1.50 To 2 Ft.
Width	0.75 To 1.50 Feet