Chloranthus fortunei

RHS Plant Profile
Fortune's chloranthus
Fortune's chloranthus RHS
Herbaceous Perennial

A herbaceous perennial with purple-black stems, each supporting a single whorl of leaves that open deep purple in spring then mature to deep green in summer. From late spring to early summer pairs of white, tassel-like flowers are produced above the leaves

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Chloranthaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus
Chloranthus are herbaceous perennials or sub-shrubs with leaves arranged in pairs or whorls. Upright or hanging sprays of small, white or yellow, petal-less flowers are followed by green, red or white berries
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
China

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained soil in sun for best colour, or semi-shade

Propagation

Propagate by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free