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Anemopsis californica

Apache beads

Has large, green or grey-green leaves up to 20cm long, and spreads slowly by producing runners. Tiny, scented, white, pale yellow or greenish flowers are clustered into a cone, with ring of conspicuous white bracts around the base. Red tints appear in cold snaps and the whole plant can turn red in autumn

Other common names
lizard tail
yerba mansa
Synonyms
Houttuynia californica
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer White Green Grey Silver
Autumn Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

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

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Saururaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Anemopsis is a genus of just one species of clump-forming perennial suited to mountainous or woodland areas of Japan. It bears sharply-toothed or lobed leaves and loose panicles of lilac and violet flowers. Ideal for woodland or peat gardens and shady borders.

Name status

Correct

Plant range
SW USA to Mexico

How to grow

Cultivation

Needs a permanently moist soil, and will tolerate up to 10cm of water over the crown. Happy in sun or semi-shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed, by division or by separating rooted runners

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
Pruning

Remove dead leaves and spent flowers as necessary

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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