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Herbaceous Perennial

Gillenia trifoliata

Bowman's root

A bushy, upright perennial about 1m in height, with red stems and small, 3-lobed bronze-green leaves which turn to warm orange in the autumn. Open sprays of starry white flowers 3-4cm in width, appear from late spring to late summer

Other common names
false ipecac
Indian hippo
see moreIndian physic
western dropwort

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Red White Bronze Green
Summer Red White Bronze Green
Autumn Red Bronze Green Orange
Winter
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or North–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Gillenia are rhizomatous perennials with palmately divided leaves and lax panicles of star-shaped white or pale pink flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
NE USA & Canada

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, slightly acid to neutral, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade. Can tolerate full sun if shaded in the hottest part of the day. May need staking

Propagation

Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in winter or propagate by division in spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

No pruning required,

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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