Prosartes smithii

RHS Plant Profile
largeflower fairybells

Other common names

largeflower fairybells

Synonyms

Disporum smithii
Prosartes menziesii
Disporum menziesii

Herbaceous Perennial

A clump-forming perennial with bright green foliage and cream flowers in spring, followed by orange berries

Position

Full shade, Partial shade

Soil Types

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

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

Position

Full shade Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Liliaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Prosartes are herbaceous perennials, arising from short rhizomes, with upright stems bearing alternate leaves and hanging, white or greenish-yellow flowers in pairs or small clusters
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
W North America

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in a cool, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial shade or deep shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in autumn or spring or propagate by division of rhizomes in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Ground cover

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free