Podophyllum peltatum, known as May Apple, is a distinctive woodland perennial grown for its large umbrella-like leaves and spreading rhizomes.

This shade-loving plant forms colonies over time, creating a striking ground layer beneath trees and shrubs.

• Height: 30–45cm
• Spread: 60–90cm over time
• Flower colour: white
• Flowering time: spring
• Position: partial shade to full shade
• Soil: moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil

About Podophyllum peltatum

Podophyllum peltatum grows from creeping rhizomes and produces upright pale green stems topped with glossy umbrella-shaped leaves.

Some stems produce a single leaf, while more mature stems carry two leaves. When two leaves appear, a nodding flower develops between them.

The waxy white flowers are often hidden beneath the foliage when viewed from above. These fragrant blooms appear in spring and later develop into oval fruits.

The fruits begin green and gradually ripen to yellow.

Common names include:

• May apple
• American mandrake
• Devil's apple
• Duck's foot
• Ground lemon
• Indian apple
• Indian May apple
• Wild mandrake
• Wild jalap
• Raccoon berry

Benefits for UK Wildlife

Podophyllum peltatum contributes to woodland garden ecosystems.

• Provides shelter for insects and ground-dwelling wildlife
• Creates dense shade cover beneath trees
• Supports biodiversity in woodland-style planting

Plant alongside other shade perennials to build a layered woodland habitat.

Where to Grow May Apple

• Woodland gardens
• Shaded borders
• Under trees and shrubs
• Naturalistic planting areas
• Moist shaded beds

This plant looks particularly effective when allowed to spread naturally in shaded areas.

Planting Tips

• Plant rhizomes in spring or autumn.
• Choose a shaded or partially shaded location.
• Improve soil with compost or leaf mould.
• Plant rhizomes a few centimetres below the soil surface.
• Keep soil evenly moist while plants establish.
• Mulch annually to retain moisture.

Once established, plants gradually spread through underground rhizomes to form larger colonies.

Why Grow Podophyllum peltatum

• Large umbrella-shaped leaves
• Interesting hidden spring flowers
• Spreading ground cover for shade gardens
• Suitable for woodland planting
• Architectural foliage for shaded areas

If you want a distinctive woodland plant, Podophyllum peltatum provides bold foliage and natural ground cover for shaded garden spaces.