American barrenwort (Vancouveria hexandra)

American barrenwort

Features and Characteristics

Vancouveria hexandra, commonly called American barrenwort or inside-out flower, is a rhizomatous, basal-leaved, woodland perennial that grows to 12-18″ tall with a spread to 12″ wide or more. It slowly forms over time a ground cover reminiscent of some epimediums. It is native to moist coastal woodland areas on the western side of the Cascades from Washington to Northern California. Plants feature ternate to twice ternate basal leaves, with each leaf having 9-15, thin, pale green to blue-green, 3-lobed, heart-shaped leaflets (to 1 1/2″ long). Drooping white flowers (each to 1/2″ long), each with 6 petals and 6 sepals, bloom in an open panicle of 10-30 nodding flowers atop a leafless stem rising above the foliage in late spring to early summer (May-July). Petals and sepals are swept backwards, hence the common name of inside-out flower. Fruit has no ornamental interest.

Genus name honors Captain George Vancouver, Royal Navy (1758-179- , British explorer.

Specific epithet is in reference to the six stamens.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in cool, organically rich, acidic, consistently moist, well-drained loams in part shade to full shade. Plants perform poorly in hot and dry summers. Protect from drying winds. Propagate by rhizome division. For growth as a ground cover, site starter plants to 10-12” apart.

American barrenwort (Vancouveria hexandra) Requirements

Hardiness zone	5 - 7
Sun light	Part shade to full shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Small area ground cover or edger for cool moist shady areas. Mass in woodland gardens, wild gardens or naturalized areas. Also effective in partially shaded areas of rock gardens and border fronts and foundations. Grows well under trees. Edger for paths and walkways.

American barrenwort (Vancouveria hexandra) Details

Common name	American barrenwort
Botanical name	Vancouveria hexandra
Plant type	Herbaceous perennial
Family	Berberidaceae
Hardiness zone	5 - 7
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	White
Flowering period	May - July
Height	1 - 1.50 feet
Width	1 - 1.50 feet