Growing Umbrella Plant (Darmera peltata): Dramatic Foliage for Damp Shade

Darmera peltata (Umbrella Plant) – Bold Leaves & Early Spring Flowers

Pronunciation: dar-mer'uh

Native to southwestern Oregon and northern California mountains. Thick rhizomes produce dramatic mounds of broad, round, lobed leaves 10–12 inches across resembling inside-out umbrellas. In fall, they turn spectacular red. Pale pink, star-shaped flowers in clusters on branching stems emerge before leaves in early spring. Large leaves complement hostas, ferns, or astilbes.

Growing Conditions

• Soil/Light: In average garden soil, requires partial shade; in wet soil, tolerates full sun. Won't tolerate standing water. In the South, needs full shade regardless of moisture. Not suited to Zones 8–10 Deep South or desert Southwest.
• Pests: Slugs and snails may chew holes—about the only problem.

Slug Control

• Shallow bowls of beer (any brand) to catch and drown slugs/snails; empty frequently.
• Copper strips around pots or as ground collars create effective barriers.
• Diatomaceous earth (DE) as barrier—use pesticide formulations, not pool grade.
• In South, mulching with Zoysia clippings deters slugs.