Syneilesis aconitifolia at Kingwood Center, Mansfield, Ohio

Shredded umbrella plant (Syneilesis aconitifolia) is a non-aggressive woodland ground cover which is native to dry hillsides in China, Japan, and Korea (USDA hardiness zones 4 thru 8). It has a medium green lacy foliage which you will treasure in the shade garden.

While its flowers may be tiny and inconspicuous, the circular umbrella foliage canopy is nothing short of WOW! In early spring the new foliage emerges through the decaying leafy garden debris which carpets the ground. Each leaf is completely clothed with white hairs, exhibiting a soft gray color and fine texture. As the plant matures, a green umbrella leaf canopy dominates and the gray hairs slough off.

While shredded umbrella plant gets by in a moderately dry woodland habitat, it thrives in a compost-rich, well-drained, moist, heavily mulched soil. The rhizomes slowly spread (2 feet wide in 5-7 years) to form a small plant colony.

Stout 16-18 inch high sturdy stems support the circular leaves. On multi-year old plants, individual leaves may average a small dinner plate in size and are dissected as some Japanese maple varieties.

Shredded umbrella plant mixes well with other woodland favorites such as dwarf Solomon seal (Polygonatum humile), brunnera, and ferns. Munchkin Nursery on-line is one of several sources of shredded umbrella plant.