Xanthorhiza simplicissima (30/11/2014, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun to full shade
Flowering period: Spring
Soil: Moist, well drained
Eventual Height: 60cm
Eventual Spread: 1.2m
Hardiness: 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a
Family: Ranunculaceae
Xanthorhiza simplicissima is a deciduous sub shrub with a bushy habit. Its mid green leaves are divided into 5 toothed leaflets, up to 18cm long and 10cm long. Its leaflets are up to 10cm long and 8cm broad. Its leaves turn yellow to purple in autumn before they fall. Its purple/ brown flowers are star shaped and appear in broad panicles which are up to 20cm long. Its fruit are star shaped. Its roots produce runners which aids its spread.
Xanthorhiza simplicissima, commonly known as Yellowroot, is native to east USA. In its native habitat it grows at the edge of streams and other damp places. Xanthorhiza simplicissima is the only member of this genus.
The etymological root of the binomial name Xanthorhiza is derived from the Greek xanthos meaning ‘yellow and rhisa meaning ‘root’. Simplicissima is derived from the Latin simplex meaning ‘simple’.
The landscape architect may find Xanthorhiza simplicissima useful as as part of a moist woodland panting scheme. It may also be used as part of a rain garden planting scheme.
Xanthorhiza simplicissima Leaf (30/11/2014, Kew Gardens, London)
Ecologically, Xanthorhiza simplicissima flowers are attractive to pollinating insects. Some birds and mammals are attracted to its fruit.
Xanthorhiza simplicissima prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils. It prefers an acid to neutral pH of soil. It dislikes dry soils.
Xanthorhiza simplicissima requires little maintenance. Its leaves may be cut back to its woody stems in early spring to promote a tidy appearance.