Polygonatum mengtzense f. tonkinense
A species of rhizomatous evergreen perennial to around 40cm in height, with thick, slender, purple-flushed olive-green foliage and bright purple arching stems. Clusters of small, bell-shaped, purple-red flowers appear in the leaf axils in late spring, followed by red fruits which remain over a long period of time
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Purple | Purple Red | Green Purple | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple | Green Purple | Red | |
| Autumn | Purple | Green Purple | Red | |
| Winter | Purple | Green Purple | Red |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets if eaten (dogs) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Polygonatum are rhizomatous herbaceous perennials with erect or arching stems bearing glossy, elliptic leaves and pendent, tubular or bell-shaped flowers, sometimes followed by black or red berries
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- China to Vietnam
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any fertile, humus-rich moist but well-drained soil, preferably in part shade but will tolerate full shade
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut down to ground level in late autumn
Pests
May be susceptible to slugs and solomon's seal sawfly
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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