Umbrella plant Darmera peltata 'Nana'
ABOUT
Darmera peltata 'Nana', commonly known as the dwarf Indian rhubarb, is a diminutive cultivar exhibiting a clump-forming habit with eye-catching features throughout its growth cycle. In spring, the plant makes a dramatic entrance with its flower display before the foliage emerges. The flowers are small, numerous, and borne on flower stalks that rise directly from the ground, giving them a whimsical umbrella-like appearance. These blooms are typically a soft pink to white color, clustered tightly together in rounded, globe-shaped umbels. As the flowering season ends, the plant's leaves develop and become the star attraction. The leaves of dwarf Indian rhubarb are quite distinctive – they are rounded, almost shield-like in shape, with a deeply lobed and peltate (umbrella-like) form that gives the plant its specific epithet, 'peltata.' The leaves can be quite large in proportion to the plant, giving it a bold texture in garden settings. The foliage has a rich green color that can turn to reddish tones in the fall, providing a seasonal display of color. The surface of the leaves may have a subtly corrugated texture that adds to their lush appearance. Dwarf Indian rhubarb spreads by rhizomes, forming a clump that increases in size over the years. The overall appearance of the dwarf Indian rhubarb is one of a charming compact perennial suited for woodland gardens or areas with moist conditions, as it naturally favors stream banks and wet locations in its native habitat. The attractive foliage and flowers of this plant make it a popular choice among garden enthusiasts who appreciate its unique form and seasonal interest.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
Dwarf Indian Rhubarb, Dwarf Umbrella Plant
Common names
Peltiphyllum peltatum, Peltiphyllum peltatum var. peltatum, Saxifraga peltata, Darmera peltata.
ToxicityTo humans
There is limited specific information available regarding the toxicity of the plant commonly known as Indian Rhubarb to humans. However, in general, it does not appear to be commonly listed as a particularly toxic plant to humans. Although parts of the plant may contain compounds that could cause irritation or an adverse reaction if ingested, there is not enough conclusive evidence to provide a definitive list of symptoms. Caution should be exercised to prevent ingestion, particularly by children, and medical attention sought if ingestion does occur.
To pets
Indian Rhubarb is not widely cited as being highly toxic to pets, but it is always wise to prevent pets from ingesting plants. Limited information is available on the specific effects of this plant on animals. However, if any part of the plant is ingested by pets, it is prudent to watch for signs of gastrointestinal upset and consult a veterinarian. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling could occur if the plant has any toxic properties that affect animals. Always err on the side of caution and keep plants that are not known to be safe away from pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Compact Size: 'Nana' is a smaller cultivar, making it suitable for smaller gardens or areas with limited space.
- Ornamental Foliage: Has attractive, rounded leaves that add visual interest to a garden throughout the growing season.
- Showy Flowers: Produces clusters of pink flowers in spring that add a splash of color before many other plants have bloomed.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers a lengthy period of visual appeal with its foliage in spring and summer, flowers in spring, and sometimes autumnal color.
- Water Feature Compatibility: Thrives in moist conditions, making it a good choice for planting near ponds or streams.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, aside from occasional watering in dry conditions.
- Naturalizes Well: Can spread to form large clumps, making it an effective ground cover in the right conditions.
- Wildlife Attraction: Flowers can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden.
- Tolerates Wet Soil: Unlike many other plants, it can tolerate and even thrive in wet, boggy soils.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Darmera peltata 'Nana', commonly known as dwarf Indian rhubarb, can be used in floral arrangements, especially the large, rounded leaves which add a unique texture to the design.
- The plant's distinctive leaves can be used as natural molds for garden stepping stones, with the leaf pattern creating an artistic impression in concrete.
- The dwarf Indian rhubarb can be grown in large, shaded water gardens as it can tolerate moist conditions, adding a prehistoric ambiance.
- The dried seed heads of dwarf Indian rhubarb can be sprayed with metallic or glittery paint and used as decorations during the festive season.
- The waxy coating on the leaves can be used as a natural water repellent for small outdoor decorative items.
- Children can use the large leaves in play as fans or as part of nature-inspired costumes in plays or fancy dress.
- The plant's interesting leaf structure can be used by art students to study and draw complex vein patterns.
- Photographers may use dwarf Indian rhubarb as a subject for botanical photography, capturing the lifecycle from the unfurling leaves to the flowering stage.
- Leaves of the dwarf Indian rhubarb can be pressed and used in crafts such as homemade papermaking for textured effects.
- Culinary enthusiasts can use the large leaves as natural wraps in outdoor cooking to impart an earthy taste to food when cooked over an open fire, but caution is advised to ensure they are not mistaken for edible rhubarb leaves which are toxic.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Umbrella Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Umbrella Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability: Darmera peltata, commonly known as "Indian Rhubarb" or "Umbrella Plant," often grows in watery or damp conditions, symbolizing the ability to adapt and thrive in various environments.
- Protection: The large, umbrella-like leaves of the "Indian Rhubarb" provide shelter to smaller plants and animals, representing guardianship and protection.
- Growth: This plant's vigorous nature signifies continuous growth and expansion, resonating with personal or spiritual development themes.
- Changing Beauty: With leaves that change color throughout the seasons, the plant reflects the concept of evolving beauty and the passage of time.
WaterThe Umbrella Plant needs consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Initially after planting, water the plant thoroughly to help establish roots. Once established, water the Umbrella Plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, which could be about once a week, using about 1-2 gallons of water per plant, depending on the size and environmental conditions. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency as the plant goes into dormancy. Ensure the soil drainage is good to prevent waterlogging.
LightThe Umbrella Plant thrives best in partial shade to full shade conditions. It should be placed where it is protected from harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch its leaves. A spot under a canopy of trees or on the north side of a building where it can receive bright indirect light is ideal for this plant.
TemperatureThe Umbrella Plant prefers temperate conditions and can thrive in temperatures ranging from 45 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Though it can survive brief periods of temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit, it is best to avoid prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures. Ideally, maintain a temperature above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for healthy growth.
PruningThe Umbrella Plant benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. It is not necessary to prune frequently; once a year should suffice. Pruning also rejuvenates the plant and encourages fuller growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Umbrella plant 'Nana' prefers a rich, humusy, and consistently moist soil mix with good drainage. A suitable soil mix can be composed of 2 parts peat, 1 part perlite, and 1 part garden loam, maintaining a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingThe Umbrella plant 'Nana' typically needs repotting every 2 to 3 years, as it can quickly outgrow its container. Springtime, just before the onset of the growth season, is the ideal period for repotting.
Humidity & MistingThe Umbrella plant 'Nana' thrives best in high humidity conditions. Aim for a humidity level of 50% or higher, which mimics its natural boggy habitat, for optimal growth and health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Bright indirect light, high humidity, and maintain moist soil for Umbrella plant 'Nana'.
Outdoor
Plant in part shade, keep soil moist; provide rich organic matter for Umbrella plant 'Nana'.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleDarmera peltata 'Nana', commonly known as the dwarf Indian rhubarb or dwarf umbrella plant, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in moist soil conditions usually near streams or in damp woodlands. The seedling emerges and develops into a juvenile plant with a basal rosette of rounded, lobed leaves on long petioles. As it matures, the dwarf Indian rhubarb forms a rhizomatous root system that allows it to spread and colonize the area. In early to mid-spring, before the foliage fully develops, it produces flower stalks with clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers. Once pollinated, these flowers develop into small, winged fruit that can be dispersed by water or animals. In the late autumn, the plant dies back to the ground, with the rhizomes surviving the winter to sprout again the following spring, completing its perennial life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Darmera peltata 'Nana', commonly known as the dwarf umbrella plant, is most effectively propagated by division. The best time to divide the plant is in early spring before new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has a piece of the root system attached. These divisions can then be replanted in the garden at the same soil depth they were growing at previously. It is important to keep the new divisions well-watered until they are established, which generally means maintaining moist soil without waterlogging it.
