Culture
Best grown in moist, fertile, well-drained soils in part shade. Tolerates full sun in the northern part of its growing range. However, plants often struggle in the hot and humid summers of the deep South where they appreciate afternoon shade or sun dappled shade. If grown in full sun, consistent moisture is important. Plants spread over time by short creeping rhizomes. Plants may self-seed in optimum growing conditions.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Mukdenia rossii is native to rocky slopes and ravines in China, Manchuria and Korea. It is a compact herbaceous perennial that grows in a heuchera-like clump to 12” tall. Palmate, rounded, 5-9 lobed, dentate, medium green leaves (to 5” long) are tinged with bronze. Leaves are attractive throughout the growing season. White, bell-shaped flowers in branched panicles rise on naked stems above the foliage clump to 16” tall in early spring (April). Mukdenia rossii is synonymous with and formerly known as Aceriphyllum rossii.
Specific epithet honors British naval officer and Arctic explorer Sir John Ross (1777-1856).
‘Karasuba’ is a cultivar that features more pronounced crimson red color in the leaf tips throughout summer. It may also be sold under the translated trade name of CRIMSON FANS.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for slugs and snails.
Uses
Ground cover for shady areas. Woodland gardens. Shade gardens. Borders.