Podophyllum peltatum ~ Mayapple, American Mandrake

Podophyllum peltatum ~ Mayapple, American MandrakeMayapple is a native herbaceous perennial with a single stem featuring one or two deeply lobed pale green umbrella like foliage that turns golden yellow in summer before going dormant. Attractive white waxy flowers that are hidden under the foliage bloom in early spring. Each flower gives way to fleshy edible fruits that turn golden when ripe and can be used to make preserves. Flowers best in part shade and rich, moist soils. NOTE: the leaves, roots,

Mayapple is a native herbaceous perennial with a single stem featuring one or two deeply lobed pale green umbrella-like foliage that turns golden yellow in summer before going dormant.  Attractive white waxy flowers that are hidden under the foliage bloom in early spring.  Each flower gives way to fleshy edible fruits that turn golden when ripe and can be used to make preserves.  Flowers best in part shade and rich, moist soils. 

NOTE: the leaves, roots, and unripe fruit are highly toxic if ingested.  

MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low maintenance.  Water regularly, keep soils moist to prevent burning or foliage decline.  Powdery mildew and wilt may occur.  Watch for japanese beetles. 

LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Naturalized Areas, Wildlife Garden, Foundational Plantings, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS:  Wild Geranium, Woodland Phlox, Solomon's Seal

IMAGE: Valis55, Podophyllum peltatum Single Leaf, CC BY 3.0

Fritzflohrreynolds, Podophyllum peltatum - Mayapple 2, CC BY-SA 3.0