Ellisiophyllum pinnatum

Ellisiophyllum pinnatum is a little-known Asian perennial plant that seems destined for a bright future due to its ability to cover the ground in shaded and cool areas, and ease of cultivation. It forms a dense, low-growing mat of hairy and leafy creeping stems, which are covered in long-lasting small white star-shaped flowers from June to August. Its semi-evergreen, matte green foliage is beautifully lobed like that of chrysanthemums. This hardy and easy-to-grow plant will spread in humus-bearing soil between stones in a shaded rockery or near a water source.

Ellisiophyllum pinnatum is a perennial plant belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae, native to Bhutan, China, Japan, New Guinea, and the Philippines, where it grows in shaded sites and undergrowth near water courses. To our knowledge, it is a genus that comprises only one perennial species, recently introduced to Europe. There is so little information available about this plant that we can only share our own experience.

This plant forms a low-growing mat that does not exceed 10 cm (4in) high and quickly spreads through stolons that root as they grow, forming a tight and intertwined network. The light green leaves, covered in short hairs, are 1 to 2 cm (1in) long and arranged in pairs along the stolons. They are carried by a 2 to 6 cm (1 to 2in) long petiole and consist of 5 rounded spatulate leaflets with 3 teeth at their tips. During the 5 winters spent in our garden, the foliage has shown varying levels of persistence, but the plant does not seem to suffer from frost. The small white star-shaped flowers with 5 petals, 1 cm (1in) long, similar to those of Bacopa 'Snowflake', appear from June until the first frost. The plant produces few seeds.

Placed near a waterfall, in a shaded rockery, in clay, very moist and acidic soil, Ellisiophyllum pinnatum occupies the space by weaving its way everywhere, between rocks. It is an excellent, robust ground cover. It will quickly add a splash of colour along north or east-facing facades or pathways, at the base of sunless walls. It will effectively hide the base of shade-loving shrubs such as Hydrangea quercifolia 'Snow Queen', along with Tiarella cordifolia with its white flower spikes. This plant will also thrive on the edge of a pond, with Arum italicum, Geranium vivace nodosum, or Alchemilla mollis.

Note: Please be aware that our plug plants are professional products intended for experienced gardeners. Upon receipt, transplant and store them in a sheltered location (veranda, greenhouse, cold frame...) at a temperature above 14°C (57.2°F) for a few weeks before being planted outdoors once all risk of frost has passed.