Contents
Description
Podophyllum Versipelle Subsp. Versipelle, commonly known as the Chinese Mayapple, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Berberidaceae family. It is native to China and is commonly found growing in the mountainous regions of southwestern China. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall, with large leaves that are deeply lobed and can grow up to 30 cm in diameter. The flowers are small, white or pink, and appear in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Berberidaceae |
| Genus | Podophyllum |
Appearance
The Chinese Mayapple has large, umbrella-like leaves that are deeply lobed and can grow up to 30 cm in diameter. The leaves are glossy and bright green in color, and the plant grows up to 30 cm tall. The flowers are small, white or pink, and appear in the spring. The fruit that follows the flowers is a large, fleshy berry that is green when immature and turns red when ripe.
Care Guide
To care for the Chinese Mayapple, it is important to provide it with moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade. The plant prefers consistent moisture, so regular watering is necessary, especially during dry spells. Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. The Chinese Mayapple is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese Mayapple is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or leaf spot if grown in overly moist conditions. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation.
Habitat
The Chinese Mayapple is native to China and is commonly found growing in the mountainous regions of southwestern China. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Chinese Mayapple be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Chinese Mayapple can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does the Chinese Mayapple require pruning?
A: No, the Chinese Mayapple does not require pruning. However, you can remove any dead or yellowing leaves as needed.
Q: Can the Chinese Mayapple be grown indoors?
A: While the Chinese Mayapple prefers to be grown outdoors, it can be grown indoors in a bright, humid room.
Q: How often should the Chinese Mayapple be fertilized?
A: The Chinese Mayapple should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Podophyllum peltatum
- Podophyllum hexandrum
- Podophyllum emodi
References
- “Podophyllum Versipelle Subsp. Versipelle – Chinese Mayapple.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=248421. Accessed 1 June 2021.
- “Podophyllum Versipelle.” Plant Delights Nursery. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/podophyllum-versipelle. Accessed 1 June 2021.
- “Podophyllum Versipelle.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/68079/Podophyllum-versipelle/Details. Accessed 1 June 2021.
