Berberidaceae

May-apple

Podophyllum peltatum

Synonyms

Podophyllum peltatum var. annulare
Podophyllum peltatum var. peltatum

Other Common Names

American mandrake

Plant Type

Herbaceous Wildflower

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

1-1.5 ft. tall
1 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Deer, Drought

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil, Direct Afternoon Sun

Propagation

By seed, By division

Plant Propagation Notes

Seeds require three months of moist cold stratification to germinate.

Plant Planting Notes

Plant in an area that allows this plant to spread.

Plants/Diseases

No significant disease or pest issues. May experience rust on leaves.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Fruit/seeds for birds

Leaves

Leaves opposite, usually only one or two; orbicular with deep lobes.

Flowers

Solitary, cup-shaped flowers; fragrant.

Fruit

1-3 inch round berry.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested except for fully ripe fruit.

Edibility

Fully ripe fruit (yellow and soft) is edible and can be used for jams and jellies.

Podophyllum peltatum

USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Light Exposure

Part Sun/Shade, Full Shade

Soil Moisture

Medium

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Forests, bottomlands, slopes, and pastures with rich acidic soils.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Common throughout South Carolina