Culture
Best grown in evenly moist, well-draining, rich, humusy loams in part shade. Will tolerate more sun if provided adequate and consistent moisture. Hardy in USDA Zones 5-8.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Rodgersia nepalensis is a herbaceous perennial native to temperate, mixed deciduous and coniferous forests in northeastern Nepal and neighboring southern Tibet. Mature plants can reach around 4' tall with an equal width. The pinnately compound foliage is made up of 7-14, oblong to elliptic leaflets with serrated margins that can reach 15" long and 4" wide. The rachis (central stalk which the leaflets attach to) and the underside of the leaflets have long, brown hairs. In summer, 3' tall flowering stalks are topped with a 1' long, terminal, branched, panicle-like inflorescence made up of small, green flowers. The inflorescence is covered in a layer of glandular hairs.
Genus name honors Rear-Admiral John Rodgers (1812-1882), distinguished American naval officer who commanded in 1852-1856 a Pacific expedition during which the first species of this genus was discovered.
The specific epithet nepalensis means "of Nepal", in reference to the native range of this species.
Problems
No pest or disease problems of note.
Uses
Woodland gardens, shade gardens, mixed borders.