Maianthemum racemosum 'Major'

Herbaceous Perennial

A clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial to 1.1m tall, with upright to arching stems bearing deeply veined, alternate leaves. In late spring it produces conical plumes of tiny, starry white flowers at the stem tips; these are followed by pink-speckled berries that ripen to red

Position

Full shade, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

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

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical 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
Unresolved

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

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free