Buy bowman's root Gillenia trifoliata

Gillenia trifoliata

bowman's root

Gillenia trifoliata is an elegant, clump-forming perennial that produces a mass of delicate, star-like white flowers on wiry, red-tinged stems from early to mid-summer. Its airy, open habit adds a lightness to shaded borders, while the finely serrated, three-lobed foliage creates interest throughout the seasons.

In autumn, the leaves take on striking fiery red tones before falling, revealing attractive seedheads that persist into winter.

Thriving in well-drained, humus-rich soil, it is an excellent choice for woodland gardens or naturalistic planting schemes, where its graceful form and long-lasting seasonal interest can be fully appreciated.

How to care for Gillenia trifoliata:

Gillenia thrives in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil and prefers partial shade, though it can tolerate some sun if the soil remains consistently moist.

Space plants around 45cm (18in) apart to allow for their natural, airy habit. Water regularly during the first year to help establish a strong root system, but once settled, it is relatively drought tolerant.

In spring, apply a mulch of well-rotted compost or leaf mould to retain moisture and improve soil structure.

After flowering, leave the decorative seedheads for winter interest or cut back spent stems in late autumn. Division can be done in early spring if clumps become congested.

Flowering period:

Eventual height:

Eventual spread:

0.6m

Position:

Light shade

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.