Contents
Description
Darmera Peltata, also known as Indian rhubarb or umbrella plant, is a perennial plant native to North America. It belongs to the family Saxifragaceae and is commonly found growing in moist woodlands, near streams, or in wet meadows. The plant produces large, umbrella-like leaves that can reach up to 3 feet in diameter and a height of 6 feet. In the spring, the plant produces clusters of pink flowers on tall, sturdy stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Darmera |
Appearance
The Darmera Peltata has large, rounded leaves that resemble those of the rhubarb plant, hence its common name “Indian rhubarb”. The leaves are bright green and can grow up to 3 feet in diameter on long, thick stalks. The plant produces clusters of small, pink flowers on tall, sturdy stems that can reach up to 6 feet in height. The flowers bloom in the spring and attract bees and butterflies. The plant’s foliage turns a beautiful shade of red in the fall, making it an attractive addition to any landscape.
Care Guide
Darmera Peltata is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
- Soil: Darmera Peltata prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant can tolerate full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Darmera Peltata is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Darmera Peltata is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves of the plant. Use a slug and snail bait to control them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can affect the leaves of the plant. Treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Darmera Peltata is native to North America and can be found growing in moist woodlands, near streams, or in wet meadows. The plant prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and can tolerate partial shade. It is a good choice for a water garden, as it can grow in shallow water.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Darmera Peltata grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Darmera Peltata can tolerate full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: How often should I water my Darmera Peltata?
A: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Darmera Peltata?
A: Darmera Peltata is hardy in zones 5-8.
Q: How tall can Darmera Peltata grow?
A: Darmera Peltata can grow up to 6 feet in height.
Related Plants
- Saxifraga
- Tiarella
- Heuchera
- Bergenia
References
- “Darmera Peltata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 27 September 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c650>.
- “Darmera Peltata.” Plant Care Today. Accessed 27 September 2021. <https://plantcaretoday.com/darmera-peltata.html>.
- “Darmera Peltata.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 27 September 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10727/darmera-peltata/details>.
