Species mukdenia
clusters of small, cup-shaped, white flowers with red stamens, and large green leaves

mukdenia

Mukdenia rossii

Mukdenia (Mukdenia rossii) is a low-growing perennial ground cover native to China and parts of Japan. It has intricately patterned leaves that range in colour from deep green to reddish purple. The sturdy but slender stems can become woody with age. It produces greenish-white flowers in early summer and is a great plant for adding interest to shady areas. Mukdenia is hardy and can actually survive temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius. For optimal growth, it needs humus-rich, moist soil that is well draining.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Part shade

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

bronze,green,purple,pink

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Mukdenia rossii should be watered on a consistent basis during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feels dry to the touch. Watering about once a week should be sufficient. It is best to avoid letting the soil stay too wet as this can cause rot. When possible, water early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperatures are cooler. During the winter, it is not necessary to water as much since the plant is in a dormant stage. Watering approximately once a month should be enough to keep this plant healthy.

sunlight

Mukdenia (Mukdenia rossii) prefer bright light but not direct sunlight. They generally require indirect light for 4-5 hours a day, with direct light for a maximum of 2 hours a day. During the winter, they may require even less light, so a south- or west-facing window may provide enough gentle light for them. It is important to note that Mukdenia plants, like many other low-light plants, will experience a period of dormancy, or rest, during the winter and may shed some of their foliage. This is normal and should not be cause for alarm.

pruning

Mukdenia (Mukdenia rossii) is a plant species that is pruned best when the foliage is young and more pliable. It is best to prune no more than 1-third of the foliage each year. For most successful growth, prune in late winter while the plant is still dormant, before new growth begins. Cut off dead or damaged stems and branches, making sure to cut at a 45-degree angle. You can also remove leggy, overgrown stems to encourage a denser growth. When pruning for shape, cut back into the main framework of branches, making sure to leave a few side shoots for increased growth. Take care to avoid cutting back too far if you want the plant to remain bushy.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Mukdenia rossii typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Mukdenia rossii typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map