Darmera peltata (Peltiphyllum peltatum)

Darmera peltata is commonly known as Indian Rhubarb or Umbrella Plant. It is grown in gardens for its unique foliage and attractive umbrella-like flowers. The green leaves are large, glossy, deeply veined, and toothed. They can reach up to 18” across, and are paler green underneath than on top. They remain attractive throughout the growing season, and will turn a gorgeous red in autumn. The showy, pinkish-white, star-shaped flowers form umbrella-shaped domes at the top of sturdy stems in the early spring, before the foliage emerges.

This stunning waterside perennial will need a larger space to grow. Darmera peltata can grow up to 3 to 5 feet tall and wide. It is easy to grow and requires little maintenance. Umbrella Plant spreads very slowly and grows in shady areas, damp soils, woodlands, riverbanks and along pond edges.

Under ideal conditions, Indian Rhubarb can be expected to live around 10 years. It is propagated through seeds in spring or fall, or by division in spring. Peltiphyllum peltatum will die back to the crown during winter, and will regrow in spring. Make sure not to disturb it when it is dormant.