Gillenia trifoliata (a.k.a. Porteranthus trifoliatus)
Blooming Time
Exposure
Relatively unknown, this low maintenance native species blooms in early spring, with masses of delicate, white, 5-petaled flowers that dance on slender burgundy stems. In summer its narrow, green, toothed foliage remains clean and disease free, forming airy, rounded mounds and turning a deep red-bronze in the fall. Bowman’s Root resembles Gaura- but very hardy, and is tolerant of moisture as well as drought once established, making it a versatile plant for use in an open garden or woodland border. Bowman’s root will even thrive with tree root competition if given a healthy layer of mulch.
Details
Hardiness Zone:
Blossom Color:
White to Cream
Growth Habit:
Sprawling
Max Height:
3'
Texture:
Recommended Spacing:
We sell this plant in these containers:
Special Characteristics
Features
Masses of delicate, white, 5-petaled flowers that dance on slender burgundy stems.
Landscape Value
A versatile plant for use in an open garden or woodland border. Bowman's root will even thrive with tree root competition if given a healthy layer of mulch.
Care
Watering:
Bowman's Root is moderately drought tolerant but benefits from occasional watering, to maintain soil in a moist but not wet condition, during the summer months.
Fertilizing:
Bowman's Root needs little fertilizer, but benefits from a single springtime or fall topdressing (about 1 inch deep) of organic compost or well rotted leaves. Alternatively, a springtime application of a slow release fertilizer with a 3-1-2 ratio (such as a 15-5-10) can be applied at a rate of about 10 pounds per 1000 square feet.
Pruning:
Bowman's Root should be enjoyed all winter long, then, during early April before it begins to grow again, it should be pruned or mowed back to ground level.