Bronze Peacock Rodgersia Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock'
ABOUT
The Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' is a striking perennial known for its bold and dramatic foliage. The plant is characterized by large, deeply cut leaves that have a textured appearance, somewhat reminiscent of a horse chestnut leaf. The color of the foliage is where 'Bronze Peacock' truly shines - the leaves emerge in spring with a bronze hue, rich and lustrous, which can appear almost metallic in the sunlight. As the season progresses, the bronze intensifies and can develop shades of deep green while retaining its bronzy undertones. In comparison to its foliage, the flowers of the 'Bronze Peacock' take a more subtle role in its display. They are produced on tall, upright stems that tower above the foliage, forming feathery plumes that can range in color from creamy white to soft pink. These plumes have a frothy, airy texture that contrasts with the robust nature of the leaves. When in bloom, the plant adds a soft, romantic dimension to the garden with these delicate inflorescences. Overall, the 'Bronze Peacock' is a visually captivating plant that draws attention not just with its size but with the exceptional beauty of its foliage and complimentary delicate flowers. It's a choice plant for adding a touch of elegance and architectural interest to semi-shaded garden areas.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
Bronze Peacock Rodgersia, Fingerleaf Rodgersia, Peacock Rodgersia
Common names
Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock'.
ToxicityTo humans
Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' is not commonly listed as toxic to humans. There is limited specific information on the toxicity of this particular cultivar to people. However, generally, the Rodgersia genus is not known for being poisonous. If any symptoms occur after ingestion, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional.
To pets
Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' is not widely known to be toxic to pets. Most sources do not report it as a commonly poisonous plant for animals such as cats and dogs. As with any non-food plant, ingestion could potentially cause mild stomach upset. If you suspect your pet has eaten a substantial amount of the plant or is showing symptoms of illness, contact your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Bronze
Flower color
Pink
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' offers stunning foliage with a bronze hue that adds color and visual interest to garden spaces.
- Seasonal Interest: This plant provides changing colors through the seasons, with leaves turning from bronze to green and then to a reddish or bronze color in the fall.
- Texture Variety: The unique, palmate leaves of the Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' add textural contrast to garden beds and borders, complementing both fine and bold-leafed plants.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, this plant requires minimal care, making it a good choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance landscaping options.
- Shade Tolerance: It can thrive in partial shade, making it ideal for understory plantings or shaded areas where other plants may struggle.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden.
- Longevity: This is a perennial plant, meaning it comes back year after year, offering long-term presence in a garden setting.
- Large Foliage: The substantial size of its leaves can help to suppress weed growth, reducing the need for frequent weeding.
- Water Feature Companion: It is well suited for planting near ponds or streams, where it can tolerate moist soil conditions and contribute to a naturalistic water garden design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' is occasionally used in fabric dyeing for its potential to impart a subtle color and organic patterns to natural fibers.
- The unique foliage texture can be used in art projects, such as leaf casting, to create decorative sculptures or relief patterns.
- During the autumn, its dried seed heads can be incorporated into floral arrangements or craft projects as a textural element.
- The leaves of the Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' can be used as natural stencils for garden path designs or creative painting projects.
- Landscape designers sometimes use the bold foliage as a motif or inspiration in garden planning software and sketches.
- Its robust leaves can serve as natural wrappers for outdoor cooking, adding a rustic touch to garden barbecues.
- The plant can be the centerpiece of a water garden due to its affinity for moist environments, adding structural diversity.
- Ecological educators use Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' as an example of a plant that thrives in riparian buffer zones, to illustrate ecosystem services in landscaping.
- Amateurs in permaculture may use the plant in guilds to create symbiotic plant communities that optimize water retention.
- Garden-themed photographers and artists might utilize the striking color and form of Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' as a focal point in their visual compositions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bronze Peacock is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bronze Peacock is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance: The Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock', with its striking foliage that resembles the elegant feathers of a peacock, often symbolizes grace and sophistication.
- Uniqueness: This plant is unique in its appearance and can represent individuality and standing out from the crowd.
- Radiance: The radiant bronzy-green leaves can symbolize radiance and vibrancy of life or character.
- Transformation: As the 'Bronze Peacock' transitions in color through the seasons, it can represent change and the ability to adapt.
- Pride: Similar to the peacock, which is known for its prideful display, the Rodgersia can symbolize pride and confidence.
WaterRodgersia, or Bronze Peacock, prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered regularly to maintain the soil's dampness without letting it become waterlogged. On average, watering once a week with one to two gallons of water should suffice, but this may need to be increased during hot, dry periods to twice a week. During the cooler months or in rainy climates, reduce the watering frequency accordingly to prevent excess moisture that could lead to root rot. It's important to water the plant at its base and avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry and minimize the risk of leaf diseases.
LightThe Bronze Peacock flourishes in dappled sunlight to partial shade. It should be positioned where it will receive morning sun and afternoon shade, or where it will be under the filtered light of tall trees throughout the day. Avoid placing it in full, direct sunlight as this can scorch the foliage, and also avoid deep shade where it may not thrive due to lack of adequate light.
TemperatureBronze Peacock thrives in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate temperatures down to 30 degrees Fahrenheit for brief periods. Extreme heat above 80 degrees Fahrenheit may stress the plant, so it is crucial to ensure adequate moisture during hot spells. The ideal temperature range to maintain the health and vigor of the plant is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune the Bronze Peacock in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged foliage and to promote healthy new growth. Pruning can also be done after flowering to maintain the attractiveness of the plant and encourage bushier growth. It is typically only necessary to prune the plant once a year, though you can also remove spent flower stems and old leaves throughout the growing season to keep the plant tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock', commonly known as Bronze Peacock Rodgersia, is a rich, organic, moist but well-draining soil. A mixture of loamy soil amended with compost and peat moss would provide the necessary nutrients and structure. The optimal soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingBronze Peacock Rodgersia generally doesn't require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Repotting should be done only when the plant outgrows its current container or if the soil has broken down and needs refreshing, typically every 3 to 4 years.
Humidity & MistingBronze Peacock Rodgersia thrives in high humidity environments, ideally above 60%. Ensure that the plant is in a spot that maintains consistent humidity levels, as fluctuating conditions can stress the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and mulch to retain soil moisture.
Hardiness zone
5-7 USDA
Life cycleRodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' begins its life as a seed, which upon finding suitable moist and shady conditions, will germinate and sprout. The seedling emerges and gradually develops into a young plant with its characteristic bronze-tinted foliage in spring. As the plant matures, its leaves expand, turning into a darker green with a leathery texture and distinctive veining, and it forms a robust clump. During early to mid-summer, the mature Rodgersia 'Bronze Peacock' produces tall flower spikes adorned with star-shaped, pink or white flowers that attract pollinators. Once flowering is complete, the plant sets seed, which can disperse to propagate new plants, completing its reproductive cycle. Eventually, as winter approaches, the plant's above-ground foliage dies back, and it enters a period of dormancy, relying on its thick rhizomes to survive the cold, only to regrow the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The 'Bronze Peacock' Rodgersia is typically propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this ornamental plant. Division should be performed in the early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant, ensuring a generous amount of root and soil is included. The clump should then be gently separated into smaller sections, each with several shoots and an adequate root system. These divisions can be immediately replanted in a well-prepared bed, spaced about 2 feet (approximately 61 cm) apart to allow ample room for growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them in their new location.
