Rodgersia pinnata ‘Jade Dragon Mountain'

Featherleaf Rodgersia Saxifragaceae

A superb, relatively compact selection of Rodgersia pinnata, notable for its large, deeply divided foliage emerging in rich bronze-red, gradually maturing to green before taking on excellent reddish tones in autumn. The substantial leaves are held on striking red-flushed stems, while airy pyramidal panicles of pinky-white flowers appear in summer, ageing to reddish tones. A particularly handsome Rodgersia for bringing bold texture and colour to damp, shady planting.

Introduction: ‘Jade Dragon Mountain’ originated as a Roy Lancaster collection, recorded as L1670. The clone was subsequently selected and introduced into horticulture by Spinners, the former Devon-based specialist nursery. Its name presumably reflects the collection’s association with China’s Jade Dragon Mountain region, although the available horticultural records do not establish the exact collection locality. 

Grow in moist, fertile, humus-rich soil in partial shade, although it will tolerate more sun where the soil remains reliably moist. Avoid prolonged drought, which can scorch the large leaves. An excellent choice beside ponds, streams and in woodland gardens, where its architectural foliage combines particularly well with ferns and other moisture-loving perennials.

Flowering: June–August
Hardiness: H7, below –20°C
Height: 1–1.2m
Spread: 1–