Jeffersonia diphylla (Twinleaf)

Jeffersonia diphylla (Twinleaf) is a compact, clump-forming, deciduous perennial with long-stemmed, blue-green basal leaves, 6 in. long (15 cm), deeply divided into two symmetrical lobes, resembling a pair of angel wings. In early to late spring, brilliant star-like white flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), adorned with eight petals and a showy bouquet of yellow stamens bloom singly atop leafless stalks. Both leaves and flowers are produced at the same time from the rhizome on long, purplish stems. The cup-shaped blossoms are followed by interesting pear-shaped capsule that pops open when ripe. At the time of flowering the plant is only 8 in. tall (20 cm), but it continues to grow and may reach 18 in. (45 cm) when the fruit ripens. The foliage will remain attractive until mid to late summer when the plant goes dormant. Twinleaf is perfectly suited to well suited to woodland or shade gardens, under deciduous trees where it starts out in part sun, but is in shade by summer.

• Grows up to 8-18 in. tall and wide (20-45 cm).
• Easily grown in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils in part shade. Full shade tolerant. Dislikes disturbance and may take a year or two to settle after transplanting. Appreciates a summer mulch to help keep the roots cool.
• A welcomed addition to shaded gardens, rock gardens, naturalized areas, wild gardens or woodland gardens. Perfect for plantings under roses or shrubs.
• Generally disease free. Keep an eye out for slugs and snails.
• Propagate by seed in containers in an open frame as soon as ripe; divide established plants in autumn, leaving two or three new buds per clump; plants will flower in two to three years.
• Native to eastern North America.
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