Fringe cups Tellima grandiflora
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as fringe cups is a perennial herb notable for its lush green foliage and delicate floral display. The leaves of fringe cups form a basal rosette, which means they grow in a circular pattern at the base of the stem. Each leaf is rounded with a heart-shaped base and has toothed edges, giving it a somewhat ruffled appearance. The texture of the leaves is often described as somewhat hairy or fuzzy to the touch. The flowers of fringe cups are its most distinguishing feature. They grow on tall, slender stalks that rise above the rosette of leaves. Each tiny flower is bell-shaped and hangs downward, resembling little cups with fringed edges, hence the name "fringe cups." Initially, the flowers are usually greenish but as they mature, they often shift to a pinkish or reddish hue. The blossoms are organized in a loose and elongated cluster along the upper portion of the stalk, which can give the plant a feathery aspect when in full bloom. Fringe cups generally bloom in the spring and early summer, bringing a subtle and elegant beauty to woodland gardens and shaded areas where they preferr to grow. Despite their delicate appearance, they are quite hardy and can form dense clumps in a garden setting, providing a groundcover of textured green leaves and softly colored flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae.
Synonyms
Fringe Cups, Large Mountain Fringe, Bigflower Tellima, False Alumroot.
Common names
Mitella grandiflora, Tellima odorata, Tellima grandiflora var. maxima.
ToxicityTo humans
Fringe cup (Tellima grandiflora) is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented symptoms of poisoning from ingestion as it is not typically associated with severe toxicity. However, it is always prudent to avoid eating plants that are not specifically grown for consumption, as individual sensitivity could vary and there might be mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.
To pets
Fringe cup (Tellima grandiflora) is also not known to be toxic to pets. Similar to its effects on humans, it generally does not cause severe symptoms if pets ingest it. It's always a good precaution to discourage pets from eating ornamental plants, but consuming this plant isn't expected to result in serious health consequences. However, mild gastrointestinal discomfort could occur if a pet consumes a large amount of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Greenish-white
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Wildlife: Tellima grandiflora, commonly known as fringe cups, provides nectar and habitat for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its delicate, fringe-like flowers and attractive foliage, fringe cups add beauty to shaded garden areas.
- Low Maintenance: Fringe cups are a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types and require minimal care once established.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant is particularly well-suited for shaded or woodland gardens where other plants might struggle to grow.
- Naturalizing: Fringe cups can spread gradually and form attractive, natural-looking drifts or ground cover in appropriate garden settings.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, the plant is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for gardens with less water availability.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Frilly green addition: Tellima grandiflora, commonly known as fringe cups, is often used as a filler in shade gardens, adding green frilly textures amidst more colorful plants.
- Ground cover: Due to its spreading habit, fringe cups can be used to cover bare ground in woodland gardens, suppressing weeds and retaining soil moisture.
- Companion planting: It is a good companion for other shade-loving plants like hostas and ferns, as it thrives in similar conditions.
- Naturalizing areas: Fringe cups can be used to naturalize shady areas of the garden, helping to create a lush, untamed landscape.
- Edging pathways: Its low-growing nature makes it suitable for edging along shaded garden paths, providing a soft border.
- Butterfly garden: While not its most famous attribute, fringe cups can contribute to a butterfly garden by providing nectar when it blooms.
- Creative foliage accent: The uniquely shaped leaves of fringe cups can be used as foliage accents in floral arrangements.
- Theme gardens: Fringe cups can be included in native plant gardens or Pacific Northwest-themed gardens, reflecting its natural habitat.
- Seed propagation: Garden enthusiasts may use fringe cups to practice seed sowing and propagation, as the plant freely self-seeds.
- Wildlife shelter: The dense foliage of fringe cups offers shelter for small wildlife, such as frogs and beneficial insects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Fringe Cups is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Fringe Cups is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Femininity: Tellima grandiflora, also known as fringecup, often represents feminine qualities due to its delicate and graceful flowers.
- Discretion: The small, subtle flowers of the fringecup can symbolize discretion and modesty.
- Youthfulness: With its fresh green foliage and early spring blooms, fringecup embodies the spirit of youth and renewal.
- Protection: In some traditions, fringecup is believed to offer protection due to its habitat in dense, shady woodlands, providing a kind of natural shelter.
WaterFringe cups (Tellima grandiflora) prefer consistently moist soil, so it's important to water them regularly. They should be watered deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water each time, which equates to approximately 0.6 gallons per square yard of soil. During periods of extreme heat or dry weather, the frequency may need to increase to maintain soil moisture. It's crucial not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightFringe cups thrive in partial shade to full shade conditions. The best spot for these plants would be an area that receives filtered sunlight or dappled shade throughout the day. Avoid direct afternoon sun as it can be too intense and may scorch the leaves. They are ideal for woodland gardens or shaded areas under trees where they can receive the right amount of light without being exposed to harsh sunlight.
TemperatureFringe cups are hardy in a range of temperatures but perform best when the temperature stays between 60°F and 75°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature down to around 20°F, ensuring their survival in winter months. The maximum temperature for fringe cups should not exceed 80°F for prolonged periods, as excessive heat may cause stress to the plant. Ideal conditions replicate their native understory habitat in woodlands with cool and stable temperatures.
PruningFringe cups benefit from pruning to remove spent flower stalks and to encourage a tidy growth habit. Pruning should be done after flowering, typically in the late spring or early summer. Cut back the flower stems to the base of the plant, and remove any damaged or dead foliage. This will help to promote new growth and improve air circulation, which can prevent fungal diseases. Pruning once a year is sufficient for maintaining the health and appearance of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFringe cups (Tellima grandiflora) thrive best in a soil mixture that mimics their natural forest floor habitat, such as a mix of loamy soil, peat, and well-decomposed leaf mold, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 to maintain slight acidity.
RepottingFringe cups typically do not require frequent repotting; it's best to repot them every two to three years to replenish the soil and address any root crowding issues that may have developed over time.
Humidity & MistingFringe cups prefer moderate to high ambient humidity, mimicking their native woodland environment; strive for a humidity level between 50% and 70% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow fringe cups in rich, moist soil in partial shade.
Outdoor
Plant fringe cups in shaded areas with moist, humus-rich soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleFringe cup or Tellima grandiflora is a perennial herb that begins its life as a seed which germinates in moist, shady conditions. Once sprouted, it develops a basal rosette of leaves close to the ground. As it matures into a fully grown plant, it develops a flowering stalk which can reach up to 3 feet in height, bearing small, greenish-white to red flowers typically in late spring to early summer. After pollination, often by insects or the wind, these flowers produce dry fruits containing seeds that are dispersed to propagate the next generation. Over the winter months, the above-ground parts may die back, but the plant persists through its underground rhizomes and can resprout the following spring. Fringe cups can also spread asexually through these rhizomes, expanding into larger clumps over time.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: Tellima grandiflora, commonly known as fringe cups, is a shade-loving perennial that can be propagated most effectively by division. The best time to divide fringe cups is in the early spring or late autumn when the plant is not actively flowering. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant, making sure to include a generous amount of root. Then, using your hands or a sharp knife, gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions promptly, spacing them about 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 centimeters) apart, at the same depth they were previously growing. Water the new plants thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged as they establish.
