Umbrella Leaf
Diphylleia sinensis
Family: Berberidaceae
What it is like
Diphylleia sinensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). It is in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.4
Where it is found
Shady areas in woodland.
E. Asia - China.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
In traditional Chinese medicine this plant is used in the treatment of coughs, malaria, cancerous sores, jaundice etc. It is said to be antiseptic. The plant contains podophyllin, an effective anti-cancer agent.
Antiseptic: Preventing sepsis, decay or putrefaction, it destroys or arrests the growth of micro-organisms.
Cancer: Used in the treatment of cancer.
Malaria: Treats malaria - an acute febrile illness caused by Plasmodium parasites spread to people through the bites of mosquitos.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a moist humus-rich soil and semi-shade, growing well in a woodland garden. This species is not in the IOPI list of accepted plant names.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. The seed is very slow to germinate, usually taking a year or more. Sow stored seed as soon as possible in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: Semi-shade
Moisture: Moist