perennial

Island Hepatica

Hepatica insularis

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

4 inches

Width

6 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist but well-drained

Humidity

Prefers humid, woodland conditions

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Korea

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested, can cause skin irritation

The Story

Plant Bio

A small, clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennial. Features three-lobed, leathery leaves that are often attractively mottled with silver or purple. Dainty, anemone-like flowers appear on short, hairy stems in very early spring, often before the new leaves emerge. Native to Korea, this species is prized by collectors for its variable and often beautifully patterned foliage. It is an excellent choice for a shaded rock garden, alpine trough, or woodland setting, providing multi-season interest with its early blooms and persistent, decorative leaves.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds early spring interest with delicate foliage and white flowers, thriving in shaded woodland areas.

Provides groundcover that suppresses weeds and stabilizes soil in shaded gardens.

Supports native pollinators and beneficial insects with early bloom.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist, well-drained soil in fall.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mist cuttings in early spring for propagation.
Apply organic compost annually in early spring.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure shade and moist, acidic soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool
Divide clumps in early spring to promote healthy growth

Don't

Avoid excessive sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not allow soil to dry out completely
Avoid heavy fertilization that can promote weak growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland garden with delicate groundcoverEarly spring border with woodland plants

Companion Plants

Trillium Ferns Hostas Jack-in-the-pulpit Virginia bluebells

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Island Hepatica questions

What zones can Island Hepatica grow in?

Island Hepatica is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Island Hepatica deer resistant?

Yes — Island Hepatica is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Island Hepatica bloom?

Island Hepatica typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Island Hepatica need full sun?

Island Hepatica does best in part shade.