Plant ID: DarMERA PELTATA

Darmera peltata

Darmera peltata is a perennial valued for its large, umbrella-like leaves and unusual bloom sequence. Also known as the umbrella plant or Indian rhubarb, it is often used in shaded gardens, especially near water features or along streambanks. Its flowers appear in spring before the foliage, giving it seasonal interest from early growth through frost.

Region

Native to the mountain streams and wet meadows of northern California and southern Oregon, Darmera peltata naturally grows in moist, shaded environments. It thrives in similar garden conditions across much of North America and Europe, particularly where soil stays consistently damp. In hot, dry regions it requires supplemental water and shade to maintain its bold foliage.

what to know

One of the most distinctive features of Darmera peltata is its flowering habit. In early spring, pink star-shaped flowers rise on leafless stems before the foliage emerges. Once the flowers fade, the plant sends up large round leaves on long stalks, each leaf ranging from 12 to 24 inches across. The leaves form a dense clump, often reaching 3 to 5 feet in both height and width at maturity.

In summer, the foliage remains bold and architectural, making the plant an excellent backdrop in shade gardens. In autumn, the leaves often turn shades of red and bronze before dying back with frost, adding another layer of seasonal interest.

Darmera peltata prefers moist, rich soil and performs best beside ponds, streams, or other water features. It can be grown in part shade to full sun, though full sun requires consistently wet soil. It pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and hostas, and works especially well in naturalistic plantings where its large leaves can provide contrast to finer textures.

general information

Exposure: Part Shade to Full Sun (with ample moisture)
Soil: Moist, Rich, Well-Drained
Height: 36 to 60 inches
Spread: 36 to 60 inches
Hardiness Zone: 5–7
Bloom Time: Early Spring