Hepatica

Family: Ranunculaceae
Common Name: Liverleaf

Found growing wild in woodlands of the north-ern temperate regions, these hardy, dwarf woodland perennials, which bloom in early spring, are particularly recommended for natu­ralising in woodland gardens. They look lovely planted in hold, informal drifts. Alternatively grow them on a rock garden.

Species

H. americana, zone 4, is an almost stemless plant, to 15 cm (6 in), with deep laven­der blue, pink or white flowers.

H. x media cul­tivar 'Ballardi', zone 5, grows to 25 cm (10 in), with large, attractive, bright blue flowers.

H. transsilvanica, zone 5, 10 cm (4 in) tall, has lavender blue blooms and is also avail-able in a pink form.

Cultivation

They like a moist, even alkaline soil, and half-shade. Propagate by division of the roots and from seed sown in trays of sandy compost during autumn.

Climate

These perennials need a cool, moist climate.