SafePlants

Darmera peltata: The Umbrella Plant

Darmera peltata, commonly known as Umbrella Plant or Indian Rhubarb, is a striking perennial that can add a tropical feel to your garden. This plant is noted for its large, rounded leaves and clusters of delicate pink flowers.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant features flower stalks on naked stems.

Considerations for Children

• This plant features flower stalks on naked stems.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Darmera peltata (Torr. ex Benth.) Voss
• Common Names: Umbrella Plant, Indian Rhubarb, Giant Cup
• Family: Saxifragaceae (Saxifrage family)
• Synonyms: Peltiphyllum peltatum

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to mountain stream banks and woodlands from southwestern Oregon to northern California.
• Also found outside of California but confined to western North America.
• Can occur as an established garden escape in damp places.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A slowly spreading rhizomatous perennial.
• Grows to a height of 3-5 feet (approximately 1.2 meters).
• Features large, rounded, lobed leaves that can reach up to 24 inches (approximately 60cm) across.
• Leaves are attached to the stalk in the middle (peltate).
• In early spring, tall, naked stems appear from thick, flattish rhizomes, carrying flat heads of pale pink flowers before the leaves emerge.
• Leaves emerge after the flowers.
• Foliage turns bronze-pink in Autumn.
• Forms a wide clump.

Culture

• Easily grown in average, medium to wet soils in part shade to full shade.
• Can be grown in full sun as long as soils are kept consistently moist to wet.
• Hardy to zone (UK) 6 and is not frost tender.

Ecological Role

• The Darmera rhizomes are very tightly wound together that weeds and other plants have a difficult time establishing a foothold in an area.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Weeds and other plants have a difficult time establishing a foothold in an area where Darmera grows because of the tightly wound rhizomes.

Resources

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society): Provides help and information on Darmera peltata.
• SaxBase: The online database of Saxifrages.
• Plants for a Future: http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Darmera%20peltata
• Jacksons Nurseries: Online retailer of Darmera peltata.
• Urban Jungle Norfolk Garden Centre and Nusery: Sells Peltiphyllum peltatum.
• Wikimedia Commons: Contains images of Darmera peltata.