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Xanthorhiza simplicissima

Xanthorhiza simplicissima
Yellow Root

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After a leafless winter, it produced some very strange flowers in early April. It should grow, but it's not spectacular for now.

Annick L., 12/04/2021

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This plant carries a 24 months recovery warranty

More information

Dense ground cover shrub, reaching a height of 90 cm (35 in), with semi-evergreen buttercup-like foliage turning from yellow to red and then to purple in autumn. Spring flowering with brown-violet star-shaped flowers clustered at the end. A rarely grown yet nevertheless fantastic and colourful plant for partial shade, preferring slightly acidic, sandy, and moist soil.
Flower size
2 cm
Height at maturity
60 cm
Spread at maturity
90 cm
Exposure
Partial shade, Shade
Hardiness
Hardy down to -23°C
Soil moisture
Moist soil
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Best planting time March, October
Recommended planting time March to June
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Flowering time April to May
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Description

Xanthorrhiza simplicissima, also known as 'Yellow Root', is a hardy shrub native to the eastern United States, a curious woody and exuberant cousin of buttercups. This unusual plant forms a dense ground cover, remarkable for its autumnal colours, which gradually change from yellow to red and then to purple in the autumn; numerous tan-yellow leaves persist on the branches during winter. It is also distinguished by its original spring flowering, with purple-brown, satin-like star-shaped flowers clustered together. To be grown in partial shade, near a water source or in a heathland bed, it will astonish and delight collectors of rare plants.

Xanthorrhiza simplicissima belongs to the buttercup family, along with clematis. It is used as a dye and medicinal plant native to a vast area located in the eastern USA, from Maine to Texas. It appreciates being situated close to water sources, ditches, and damp woods, far from the scorching sun. This shrub has a spreading and bushy habit, wider than it is tall, and can reach up to 90 cm (35 in) in height and 1.2 m (4 ft) in diameter under optimal conditions. The branches are covered with yellow bark and bear mono- or bi-pinnate leaves, which are light green and shiny and take on very beautiful colours in the autumn. Flowering occurs in April-May, at the tips of the stems, in the form of dense clusters of small star-shaped flowers. It is followed by the formation of dry and yellowish follicles.

A highly colourful plant for partial shade and moist soils, Xanthorrhiza simplicissima is used in humid and shaded areas, near water sources or at the edge of woodland, alongside brightly coloured heathland plants such as Diosma hirsuta 'Pink Fountain', variegated hostas, or even a Nandina Fire Power. A backdrop composed of Loropetalum chinense, Pieris Forest Flame or Mountain Fire, Pseudowintera colorata, and Kalmia latifolia will complete this colourful scene.

The bitter yellow roots of this plant were once used by local populations to extract dye. It has been used for a long time by the Cherokee people in particular for its antibiotic properties.

Xanthorhiza simplicissima in pictures

Xanthorhiza simplicissima (Flowering) Flowering
Xanthorhiza simplicissima (Foliage) Foliage
Xanthorhiza simplicissima (Plant habit) Plant habit

Plant habit

Height at maturity 60 cm
Spread at maturity 90 cm
Habit Irregular, bushy
Growth rate normal

Flowering

Flower colour purple
Flowering time April to May
Inflorescence Cluster
Flower size 2 cm
Fruit colour yellow

Foliage

Foliage persistence Deciduous
Foliage colour green

Botanical data

Genus

Xanthorhiza

Species

simplicissima

Family

Ranunculaceae

Other common names

Yellow Root

Origin

North America

Product reference826541

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Planting and care

Xanthorhiza simplicissima should be planted in spring or autumn, in partial shade, in soil that is rather acidic (pH <6.8), sandy or humus-rich and which remains very moist or even damp. Choose a shady or partially shaded location. Pruning in early spring will give this exuberant shrub a neater appearance and a more compact habit.

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Planting period

Best planting time March, October
Recommended planting time March to June

Intended location

Suitable for Woodland edge, Pond edge
Type of use Border, Edge of border
Hardiness Hardy down to -23°C (USDA zone 6a) Show map
Ease of cultivation Amateur
Planting density 1 per m2
Exposure Partial shade, Shade
Soil pH Acidic, Neutral
Soil type Silty-loamy (rich and light)
Soil moisture Moist soil, humus-rich, sandy, moist

Care

Pruning instructions Pruning at the beginning of spring will give this exuberant shrub a tidier appearance and a more compact habit.
Pruning Pruning recommended once a year
Pruning time March
Soil moisture Moist soil
Disease resistance Good
Overwinter Can be left in the ground
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