Umbrella Plant
darmera peltata
Also known as: ["Indian Rhubarb","Peltiphyllum peltatum"]
Overview
A deciduous perennial with large, rounded, peltate leaves and erect stems bearing small, pinkish-white flowers in early spring.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Darmera |
| Botanical Name: | Darmera peltata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: near ponds or water features, in shaded garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to slightly moist.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with high organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates morning sun but prefers protection from intense afternoon sun; 4–6 hours of filtered light is ideal.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to brighter light if moving from shade; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; in containers, place in a spot with dappled light or filtered shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide shade during peak heat; monitor for signs of sunburn or leaf bleaching.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
rich, moist, well-draining soil
pH: Acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–7.0.
Ensure consistent moisture; amend with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates cold down to 0°F (-18°C) but thrives in cooler climates.
Protect from extreme heat; insulate roots in winter; adjust watering with temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn; discontinue in late summer to allow for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings in early spring or fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with a sharp, sterile knife.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly and keep moist until established.
Best Time: Early spring before new growth begins or fall after foliage dies back.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture and protect from extreme temperatures.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix with added compost or peat moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division, but rooting hormone can aid root cuttings.
Timeline
Rhizome division establishes quickly in 1–2 weeks; root cuttings may take 4–6 weeks to root and several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, well-draining soil mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Divide only healthy rhizomes; ensure each division has roots and buds; keep newly propagated plants consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or just above a healthy bud; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead or damaged stems; clean up debris around the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; container-grown plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone to a depth of 6–8 inches, ensuring even moisture distribution and allowing excess water to drain away from the crown to prevent rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth, increasing to twice weekly in hot, dry periods; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, ensuring soil remains slightly moist but not waterlogged.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold or frost exposure.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration; frost can damage tender new growth, though established plants are hardy to cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in fall to insulate roots; protect young or container-grown plants with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor; plants may go dormant if temperatures are too high.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to keep roots cool and retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer if using; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season, avoiding high-nitrogen formulas.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDarmera peltata is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDarmera peltata is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDarmera peltata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Darmera peltata require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial shade to full shade, especially in warmer climates.
Q: How often should I water Darmera peltata?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist, as it thrives in damp conditions.
Q: Does Darmera peltata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
