Genus Podophyllum (Mayapple)

Podophyllum peltatum Photo/Illustration: Jennifer Benner

poe-doe-FIL-lum

Common Name: Mayapple

Podophyllum is a genus of about nine species of woodland perennials from North America and parts of Asia, mostly grown for their foliage and form. A patch of mayapples in the garden looks like a parade of open parasols. Flowers are pink, white, or red, but they are somemtimes hidden under the foliage. Blooms are followed by 1- to 2-inch fruit that looks like small apples or eggs. It is sometimes eaten by wildlife. Some species have leaves marbled with purple or brown markings. Mayapples belong in a woodland garden or other moist, shady area. They can spread by rhizomes to form large colonies.
Noteworthy characteristics: Umbrella-like, lobed foliage. Most species are highly toxic.
Care: Grow in full or part shade in woodsy, moist soil.
Propagation: As soon as seeds are ripe, sow them in containers in an open frame. Plants may be divided in spring or late summer.
Problems: Slugs may eat new spring growth.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Podophyllum

Podophyllum 'Kaleidoscope'
(Hybrid mayapple, Asian mayapple) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

Mayapples are a bit of a challenge to grow because they tend to rot easily, but they are well worth the extra effort. The leaves of ‘Kaleidoscope’ have distinctive markings, ranging in color from silver and light green to almost black. The flowers are maroon and bloom in early summer. A big bonus is that this plant is mostly evergreen. When new growth emerges in spring, remove any old, tattered leaves to show off the plant’s umbrella-like growth habit.

Podophyllum peltatum
(American mandrake, Mayapple) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

Mayapple is a rhizomatous, native woodland perennial with leaves in the shape of an umbrella. They may form large colonies. In spring, white or pale pink waxy flowers are mostly hidden under the leaves. The greenish "mayapple" follows and is often eaten by wildlife. When fully ripe, the fruits may be used to make preserves or jellies, but they are toxic when unripe. Leaves and roots are poisonous. Plants often go dormant in the summer. Grow in a woodland garden.