Rodgersia 'Elegans' Rodgersia pinnata 'Elegans'

Water

Featherleaf Rodgersia requires consistently moist soil, so water thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. On average, this might equate to watering about once a week, but this could vary based on temperature and humidity. Use approximately one to two gallons of water each time for a medium-sized plant to ensure the moisture reaches the deep roots. During the growing season in spring and summer, the plant may need more frequent watering to maintain the moisture it prefers. Cut back on watering in the winter when the plant is dormant, but never let the soil become completely dry.

Light

Featherleaf Rodgersia thrives in partial shade where it can receive filtered sunlight or a few hours of morning sun. Avoid placing it in full sun, as it can scorch the leaves, especially in hotter climates. The ideal spot for this plant would be under a canopy of trees that allows dappled sunlight to come through or in a north-facing garden where it gets sufficient light without the intensity of direct afternoon rays.

Temperature

Featherleaf Rodgersia performs best in temperatures that are consistently between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum temperature of about 80 degrees Fahrenheit, but extreme temperatures should be avoided to protect the plant's health. Ideal conditions would mimic its natural, cool, woodland habitat without exposure to harsh, freezing winds or scorching heat.

Pruning

Prune Featherleaf Rodgersia to remove any dead or damaged foliage, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This will help to maintain its shape and encourage healthy, vigorous growth. Pruning is also necessary to remove spent flower heads after blooming to keep the plant looking tidy. Cut the old leaves to ground level in early spring to make way for fresh new growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Rodgersia, commonly known as Fingerleaf Rodgersia, thrives in a soil mixture rich in organic matter, with good drainage and consistent moisture. A blend of peat, garden soil, and perlite or coarse sand would make an ideal mix. This plant prefers a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 to flourish.

Repotting

Fingerleaf Rodgersia does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years. If the plant outgrows its container or the soil becomes depleted, it's time for repotting, preferably in the spring.

Humidity & Misting

Fingerleaf Rodgersia benefits from high humidity levels, which mimic its natural habitat. Aim for a humidity level of around 60% to ensure healthy growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Use rich, moist soil and place in bright, indirect light.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, keep soil moist and rich.

• Hardiness zone

  5-7 USDA

Life cycle

Rodgersia pinnata 'Elegans', commonly known as elegant rodgersia, begins its life as a seed, germinating in spring when temperatures allow. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and develops a basal clump of large, compound leaves with deep lobes and a bronze hue. As the plant matures through the growing season, it forms thick stems rising from the clump, which later bear airy plumes of tiny, star-shaped flowers, usually in shades of pink or white, by early to mid-summer. After pollination, often by insects attracted to the flowers, the plant produces small nutlets as fruits, which, when mature, are dispersed to give rise to new seedlings. Throughout the autumn, the foliage may change to striking shades of red and brown, providing ornamental interest before dying back in winter. The rhizomatous roots survive the cold season, allowing the plant to re-emerge and repeat its life cycle the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• Rodgersia pinnata 'Elegans', more commonly known as Rodger's flower or Elegant Rodgersia, is propagated through division. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is by splitting the root clumps. This is typically done in the early spring just before new growth begins or in autumn after the foliage has died back. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire plant out of the ground, ensuring to keep as many roots intact as possible. Gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a healthy portion of root. These divisions can then be replanted immediately at the same soil depth they were originally growing. Water them thoroughly to help establish the newly separated plants.