Although it prefers to grow in wet, mucky soil, umbrella plant will grow in part shade in humus-rich soil that doesn’t dry out. In full sun, it must have its feet in soil that is constantly wet—beside running or standing water. Water the plants well during drought conditions to keep them looking fresh. To propagate, use a pneumatic drill or excavator to chop off pieces of root after the frost has blackened the leaves in fall.
This highly ornamental foliage plant is not for the faint-hearted! Umbrella plant (also known as Darmera) is a Pacific Coast native with enormous leaves up to 18 inches across, on stalks that can reach 5 feet. It requires lots of space to grow, and in wet spots beside a stream, pond, or bog, it develops into a jungle that delights children. The leaves, which are edged in pointed scallops, are impressive in huge flower arrangements—they turn brilliant red in fall, another plus for this grand plant. The clusters of starry pink flowers show up on 3- to 5-foot stems before the foliage emerges.
ZONES: 5–9
BLOOM TIME: Early spring
LIGHT: Part shade
HEIGHT: 3–5 feet
INTEREST: I mpressive large leaves that turn red in fall; pink flowers before the foliage appears
If you are fortunate enough to have a stream, pond, or bog, grow umbrella plant in the adjacent wet soil. If not, place it in humus-rich organic soil in a low spot where water collects after rain. It makes a noble sight when allowed to develop into large groups under tall trees.