Podophyllum delavayi
perennial

Chinese Mayapple

Podophyllum delavayi

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Podophyllum delavayi is a perennial herbaceous plant with large, umbrella-shaped, palmate leaves and distinctive, nodding, bell-shaped flowers that are typically purple or maroon in color. This species is notable for its attractive foliage that emerges early in spring and its ability to thrive in shaded, woodland garden settings with moist, well-drained soil.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds striking foliage with unique leaf patterns, perfect for shaded areas.
Practical UsesProvides ground cover that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.
Ecological BenefitsSupports shade-loving insects and offers habitat for beneficial organisms.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Mist foliage during dry spells for healthy growth.
  4. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Divide in early spring every 3-4 years for rejuvenation.
  6. Place in partial shade for best foliage development.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains consistently moist and provide partial shade for optimal foliage color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Apply mulch to retain moisture
  • Divide in early spring

Don't

  • Avoid waterlogging the soil ❌
  • Don’t expose to full sun 🌞
  • Avoid dry conditions

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenMoist border with interesting foliageGroundcover under trees

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbe Ligularia Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Chinese Mayapple questions

What zones can Chinese Mayapple grow in?

Chinese Mayapple is hardy in USDA Zones 6–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Chinese Mayapple deer resistant?

Yes β€” Chinese Mayapple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Chinese Mayapple bloom?

Chinese Mayapple typically blooms in late spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Chinese Mayapple need full sun?

Chinese Mayapple does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Chinese Mayapple with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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