Species may-apple
white flowers with light-orange center, orange-yellow stamens, green leaves and brown branches

may-apple

Podophyllum peltatum

The may-apple (Podophyllum peltatum) is a herbaceous perennial plant found throughout North America. It has large palmate leaves that arise from a single stalk and produce a single white flower in May. The plant grows to be one to two feet tall and bears a large yellow-green fruit in June. Its fleshy yellow fruits are edible and taste sour-sweet. The plant's roots and rhizomes have been used as a native American medicinal remedy for several centuries. Its potent chemical constituents are still used in the modern medicinal industry today. The may-apple is an excellent choice for shaded garden beds and naturalized areas. Its unique foliage and delicious fruit make it a fantastic addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Part shade,full shade

Fruits:

green,yellow Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

May-apple plants should be watered regularly, however, it is important to not over-water them as they are susceptible to root rot. The best practice is to water the soil, not the plant, and to allow the soil to dry out in between waterings. During the summer and active growing season, it is best to water when the top inch of soil is dry. In the colder months, the may-apple should be watered less often, but the soil should still be kept lightly moist. Make sure not to let the soil dry out completely before watering.

sunlight

May-apple, also known as Podophyllum peltatum, is a perennial plant species that prefers to grow in moist, partially shaded areas of the garden. While this plant will tolerate some full sun, it does best when it receives dappled sunlight throughout the day. It is best planted in a spot that receives both morning sun and afternoon shade. This plant prefers at least 4 hours of sunlight each day, and no more than 8 hours of sunlight each day.

pruning

May-apple (Podophyllum peltatum) should be pruned in late winter when it is dormant. Prune the plant to remove any dead or damaged stems and damaged leaves. The stems of the plant may also be pruned back to the ground, to encourage new growth. Additionally, any non-flowering side shoots should be removed close to the main stem to encourage larger blooms. The plants may also need to be thinned if overcrowding is an issue. Finally, the center of the plant can be cut away in order to create a more open and attractive shape.

Season

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

May-apple typically starts flowering in April or May.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of the may-apple fruits typically begins in late June or early July.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of the may-apple fruits typically begins in late June or early July.

Hardiness Map