Maianthemum oleraceum
A clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial with arching, dark purple stems bearing glossy, alternate leaves to 20cm long. In early and mid summer it produces plumes of tiny, bell-shaped white (sometimes light purple) flowers; these are followed by red berries
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Purple | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple | White Purple | Green | |
| Autumn | Purple | Green | Red | |
| Winter |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Maianthemum are rhizomatous perennials with erect or arching stems bearing alternate leaves and small star-shaped flowers in terminal racemes or panicles, followed by red berries
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Himalaya, W China
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soil in light dappled or full shade
Propagation
Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Divide rhizomes in early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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