Podophyllum cv. ‘Kaleidoscope’
Large, umbrella-like leaves unfurl in spring with marbled patterns of green, bronze, and silver. Each leaf is different, which is why the cultivar is called Kaleidoscope. In late spring, nodding burgundy to red flowers hide under the foliage. Clumps expand slowly and form a bold mound in moist shade.
Asian mayapples are close cousins of the North American mayapple. ‘Kaleidoscope’ is a selected garden clone grown for its strong leaf variegation and large leaf size.
The flowers are easy to miss. Gently lift a leaf and film the blossom hanging underneath. Variegation is strongest in cool spring weather and with bright open shade.
Not aquatic. Best just outside the liner in consistently moist, humus-rich soil. Ideal for shaded pond edges, behind stones, or along paths where water splash keeps the soil evenly damp.
Use as a single bold clump or repeat in a drift for a woodland look. The broad leaves read well against moss, stone, and fine textures like ferns and forest grass. Avoid hot afternoon sun and wind to keep foliage clean.
Sword fern (Polystichum munitum), Japanese painted fern, Hakonechloa macra, hosta, epimedium, tiarella, small Japanese maples.
Dense leaves create cool, humid cover near water features. Flowers are visited by early beetles and small pollinators.
Sun: Partial to full shade
Moisture: Evenly moist, never bone dry
Soil: Rich, humus-heavy, well drained but moisture retentive
Hardiness: Roughly Zones 6 to 9
Notes: New leaves can scorch in late frost. Protect with a light cover if a cold snap is forecast.
Mulch yearly to hold moisture. Mark the crown so you do not disturb it while dormant. Divide rarely. Watch for slugs and snails on new growth. Remove tattered leaves as needed.
I place ‘Kaleidoscope’ in shaded, damp ground just outside the liner where splash keeps the soil cool. It looks best tucked against boulders and moss with ferns behind it. The patterned leaves always pull focus without feeling loud. It can be mildy invasive spreading throughout a bed, but is easy to weed and keep in check.
