Contents
Description
Podophyllum Pleianthum, also known as the May Apple, is a deciduous plant that belongs to the Berberidaceae family. It is native to China, Japan, and Korea but has become popular among gardeners in many parts of the world. The plant produces umbrella-like leaves and white or pink flowers that bloom in spring. The fruit of the plant is edible but should be consumed in moderation as it is mildly toxic in large quantities.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Podophyllum |
Appearance
Podophyllum Pleianthum grows up to 60 cm tall and has large, umbrella-like leaves that can span up to 30 cm in diameter. The leaves emerge in spring and are green with a glossy finish. The plant produces white or pink flowers that bloom in spring and are followed by green, egg-shaped fruit that ripens to yellow in summer. The fruit is edible but should be consumed in moderation as it is mildly toxic in large quantities.
Care Guide
Water
Podophyllum Pleianthum prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, the plant does not tolerate standing water, so be sure to provide adequate drainage.
Fertilization
The plant does not require much fertilization and can be fed with a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring.
Soil
Podophyllum Pleianthum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight
The plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade but prefers a shaded area with filtered light.
Hardiness Zones
Podophyllum Pleianthum is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Podophyllum Pleianthum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, the plant may be susceptible to fungal infections such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. Proper sanitation practices such as removing infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Podophyllum Pleianthum is native to China, Japan, and Korea and can be found growing in forested areas and along stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of Podophyllum Pleianthum edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but should be consumed in moderation as it is mildly toxic in large quantities.
Q: How tall does Podophyllum Pleianthum grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 60 cm tall.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Podophyllum Pleianthum?
A: A soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for this plant.
Q: Is Podophyllum Pleianthum hardy?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Related Plants
- Podophyllum peltatum (American mandrake)
- Podophyllum hexandrum (Himalayan may apple)
- Podophyllum emodi (Indian may apple)
References
- “Podophyllum pleianthum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282930.
- “Podophyllum pleianthum.” Plant Care Guide. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://plantcareguide.com/podophyllum-pleianthum/.
- “Podophyllum pleianthum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/207580/Podophyllum-pleianthum/Details.
