Pinellia cordata 'Yamazaki'

Miniature Dragon Araceae

One of the most desirable of the hardy Pinellias, ‘Yamazaki’ produces wonderfully glossy, heart-shaped dark-green leaves, boldly marked with silver-white veins and often flushed maroon beneath. The small green hooded flowers are produced sporadically and are strongly fragrant, with a curious fruity, bubble-gum-like scent. It is a compact tuberous perennial for moist shade, where its exotic foliage makes an excellent companion to ferns and other woodland plants.

‘Yamazaki’ has an unusually well-documented horticultural history. The form was introduced from Japan through the ARGS Seed Exchange, with material donated by Mr Yamazaki of Japan. Roy Herold and John Grimshaw both received the material from the Seed Exchange in 1992, subsequently recognising that they had the same particularly fine clone, with larger leaves and superior silver markings. The name ‘Yamazaki’ was adopted in honour of its Japanese donor. 

A choice plant which has subsequently remained relatively uncommon in cultivation. It increases readily by bulbils, but appreciates a cool, moist, well-drained position and protection from excessive summer dryness. RHS rates it H6. 

Introduction: Material donated by Mr Yamazaki, Japan, to the ARGS Seed Exchange; received and selected by Roy Herold and John Grimshaw in 1992
Height: 15–20cm
Spread: 20–30cm
Flowering: Spring–late summer, sporadically
Position: Partial shade to shade
Soil: Moist, humus-rich and well drained

Hardiness: H6 (−20°C to −15°C)⁠)