Mayapple
podophyllum peltatum
Also known as: ["American mandrake","ground lemon","duck's foot"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to eastern North America, known for its umbrella-like leaves and white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Berberidaceae |
| Genus: | Podophyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Podophyllum peltatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moist but never waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy, well-draining soil with high organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; prefers dappled sunlight or bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from deep shade; protect from direct sun to prevent leaf scorch; ideal for woodland or shaded garden beds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide filtered light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is rich in organic matter; maintain consistent moisture; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler spring and fall temperatures but avoids extreme heat.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Carefully divide rhizomes.
- Ensure each division has roots and buds.
- Plant in prepared medium.
- Maintain moisture and warmth.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth emerges.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Roots and shoots may emerge within 4–8 weeks under ideal conditions.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or pruners, small pots, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Divide only when necessary to avoid stress; keep divisions moist but not waterlogged; protect from direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; remove only necessary foliage; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years to refresh the soil.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; check root health; ensure proper drainage; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Ensure excess water drains freely from the pot or planting site. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter, letting the soil dry out more between infrequent waterings to mimic dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf burn in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dormancy if too cold (below 50°F/10°C).
Solution: Provide protection from frost; mulch around roots in colder climates; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicPodophyllum peltatum is toxic to cats, with podophyllotoxin causing severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects. The roots and rhizomes are highly toxic, while the berries can also pose a risk if ingested in sufficient quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicPodophyllum peltatum is toxic to dogs due to the presence of podophyllotoxin, which disrupts cellular processes and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms. The roots and rhizomes are highly toxic, while the berries pose a lesser but still significant risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPodophyllum peltatum contains podophyllotoxin, a potent cytotoxic lignan that inhibits DNA synthesis, leading to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects. The roots and rhizomes are particularly toxic, while the berries, though less toxic, can still cause harm if consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Mayapple toxic to humans?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are highly toxic to humans if ingested.
Q: Does Mayapple require full sun?
A: No, it thrives in partial to full shade.
Q: Can Mayapple be used medicinally?
A: Yes, its roots contain podophyllotoxin, used in cancer treatments, but must be handled by professionals.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Berberidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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