Bronze Peacock Rodgersia Rodgersia podophylla 'Rotlaub'
ABOUT
Rodgersia podophylla 'Rotlaub', commonly known as the rodgersia, is a herbaceous perennial that is noted for its striking foliage and attractive flowers. The rodgersia has large, palmate leaves that are reminiscent of horse chestnut leaves. The 'Rotlaub' cultivar has leaves that emerge with a bronze-red tint in spring, which later matures to a rich green with red veins, providing an eye-catching color contrast in the garden throughout the growing season. The leaves are heavily textured, adding a tactile dimension to its visual appeal. As the seasons progress, they can turn back to reddish tones in the fall, providing additional visual interest late in the year. In terms of its flowering characteristics, the rodgersia produces plume-like flower spikes. These blooms rise above the foliage on sturdy stems and are typically a creamy white to soft pink color, adding a frothy and airy appearance. The flowers may attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden. The overall aspect of the rodgersia is lush and bold, with its dramatic leaves and elegant blooms, it becomes a statement plant in any shaded to partially shaded garden setting. Its clumping habit adds to the plant's dense and robust appearance which is ideal for creating textural contrasts with other plants in moist, rich soils.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
Bronze Peacock Rodgersia, Redleaf Rodgersia
Common names
Astilboides tabularis, Rodgersia tabularis.
ToxicityTo humans
Rodgersia, the common name of Rodgersia podophylla 'Rotlaub', does not have a well-documented history of toxicity in humans. There is limited information available regarding its potential toxicity or the symptoms associated with poisoning from this plant. As with any plant, it is generally advisable to avoid ingesting parts of plants that are not commonly used as food, as they could potentially cause an adverse reaction.
To pets
Rodgersia, the common name of Rodgersia podophylla 'Rotlaub', is not widely recognized for being toxic to pets. However, as toxicity information about this plant is not well-documented, it is prudent to prevent pets from ingesting this or any plant that is not specifically known to be safe. If a pet does ingest part of a Rodgersia plant and shows signs of distress, it is recommended to contact a veterinarian. Symptoms of plant poisoning in pets can vary but may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or lethargy.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens with its striking foliage and flowers.
- Shade Tolerant: Thrives in shady areas where many other plants struggle.
- Moderate Maintenance: Requires regular care but is not overly demanding in terms of upkeep.
- Naturalizing: Spreads over time to create a natural woodland or forest floor look.
- Attracts Wildlife: Flowers can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers changing colors through seasons, from spring leaf-out to autumn decline.
- Soil Erosion Control: Helps stabilize soil in sloped or uneven garden areas.
- Companion Planting: Works well when planted alongside other shade-loving perennials.
- Versatility: Suitable for a variety of garden styles, including woodland and water-side plantings.
- Leaf Texture: Provides a unique texture contrast with its large, palmate leaves in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rodgersia podophylla 'Rotlaub', also known as "Bronze Peacock Rodgersia", can be used in the art of flower pressing due to its distinctive and large foliage, which creates dramatic patterns and textures once dried and pressed.
- The bold texture and striking color of the leaves can be a unique addition to floral arrangements, particularly in autumn-themed decorations where the bronze hues can complement the seasonal palette.
- With its sculptural leaves, the 'Rotlaub' can be used as a natural mold for garden stepping stones, leaving a leaf imprint on the concrete for a decorative touch in garden pathways.
- In photography, the 'Rotlaub' provides a photogenic backdrop or focal point due to its ornate leaves and contrasting colors, suitable for nature and garden-themed photo shoots.
- 'Rotlaub' can be utilized for educational purposes in botany and horticulture studies, helping students learn about plant morphology and the diversity of leaf forms and colors.
- The plant can serve as a habitat enhancer in gardens, providing shelter and possibly food sources for small wildlife, such as insects and amphibians.
- During autumn, when the leaves change color, they can be collected to create natural artwork or used in crafts for children, such as leaf rubbing or collages.
- Gardeners might use the 'Rotlaub' as a seasonal indicator plant, as the changing leaf colors can signal the transition into autumn, assisting in garden planning and maintenance schedules.
- For those practicing mindfulness or seeking to enhance their meditative garden space, the serene appearance and slow growth of 'Rotlaub' can contribute to a calming atmosphere.
- The sturdy stems and large leaves of 'Rotlaub' might be employed creatively in landscape designing to create naturalistic water features, where the foliage adds structure and interest around ponds or streams.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rodgersia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Rodgersia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Strength: Rodgersia podophylla 'Rotlaub', commonly known as Rodgersia, often symbolizes strength due to its robust and sturdy nature.
- Adaptability: The plant's ability to thrive in a variety of conditions reflects adaptability, encouraging people to be flexible and resilient in different environments.
- Unique Beauty: With its distinct foliage that changes color throughout the seasons, Rodgersia represents unique beauty, reminding us to appreciate the individuality in nature and in people.
WaterThe Rodgersia prefers consistently moist soil, so water the bronzeleaf Rodgersia deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time. During hot or dry periods, you may need to water twice a week to maintain soil moisture. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf spot diseases. Always check the top inch of soil before watering to ensure it has begun to dry; this will prevent over-watering which can lead to root rot.
LightBronzeleaf Rodgersia thrives in partial shade to full shade conditions. It's best to place the plant in a location where it will be protected from the harsh afternoon sun, as too much direct sunlight can scorch the foliage. A spot with dappled sunlight beneath a canopy of trees would be ideal for this plant.
TemperatureBronzeleaf Rodgersia grows best in cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 75°F. It's hardy in a range similar to USDA zones 5 through 7, withstanding minimum temperatures of -20°F. Extreme heat, particularly temperatures consistently above 80°F, can stress the plant, so it's important to provide shade and adequate water during the hotter months.
PruningPruning the bronzeleaf Rodgersia is mostly for aesthetic purposes and to remove any dead or damaged foliage. This should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the old leaves to the ground to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage healthy, new foliage. Pruning is typically not required more than once a year, during the plant's dormant season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRodgersia, commonly referred to as Fingerleaf Rodgersia, thrives best in rich, organic, moist soil with good drainage and a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of about 6.0 to 7.0. A mix consisting of garden loam, peat moss, and sharp sand or perlite would provide an optimal growing medium for this plant, as this mix would mimic the plant's natural habitat by retaining moisture while still allowing for proper drainage.
RepottingFingerleaf Rodgersia does not require frequent repotting as it is a large perennial that's often planted outdoors. In garden settings, dividing the plant every 3-4 years is sufficient for maintenance and propagation. However, if grown in a large container, repotting may be necessary every 2-3 years or when the plant appears to be root-bound.
Humidity & MistingFingerleaf Rodgersia prefers high humidity levels, as it is native to woodland environments. It benefits from a humid environment, ideally with a humidity level of about 60% or higher. This plant is not well-suited for arid or dry climates without additional humidity provided.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep moist and in filtered light.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, moist soil.
Hardiness zone
5-7 USDA
Life cycleRodgersia podophylla 'Rotlaub', also known as Rodger's Bronze Leaf, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically requiring a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Upon germination in early spring, the seedling slowly develops into a clump-forming perennial, with leafy growth emerging from rhizomatous roots. As the plant matures, typically in late spring to early summer, it produces large, palmate leaves that can develop bronze tints if exposed to sufficient light, giving it the 'Rotlaub' designation, which means 'red leaf' in German. The plant reaches its flowering stage in mid to late summer, where it produces tall, airy plumes of tiny white or pinkish flowers that rise above the foliage, attracting pollinators. After the blooming period, the flowers may develop into small, dry fruits containing seeds that can be dispersed, naturally or manually, to propagate new plants. As a herbaceous perennial, the foliage of Rodgersia podophylla 'Rotlaub' will die back to the ground with the onset of colder fall temperatures, with the plant entering a period of dormancy over the winter months, ready to regrow the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The Rodgersia podophylla 'Rotlaub', commonly known as the Bronze Peacock Rodgersia, is typically propagated by division. The best time to divide this plant is in the spring, once the frost has passed and the plant has started to show new growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, ensuring that each new segment has a portion of the root system attached. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing originally, spacing them about 18 inches to 2 feet (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to give them room to grow. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This simple and effective method allows gardeners to create new plants that will closely resemble the parent plant in all characteristics.
