Multi-leaved Herb Paris 'Yunnanensis'

Paris polyphylla 'Yunnanensis' is a truly architectural and exotic-looking plant that adds a touch of mystery to any UK woodland collection. It is a slow-growing, rhizomatous perennial that produces whorls of glossy, dark green lance-shaped leaves on upright stems. The highlight is the extraordinary flower: a complex arrangement of yellow-green sepals and thread-like petals, topped with a prominent central ovary and dark anthers, followed by a large, showy red seed pod that splits to reveal bright seeds in autumn. It is a plant of great structural beauty that demands a prominent spot. Fully hardy (H4-H5) in the UK, it requires a sheltered position in deep or partial shade and a moist but well-drained soil rich in leaf mould. It can take several years to reach its full height of 60-80cm and should be left undisturbed once planted. It is a choice plant for the enthusiast, offering interest from the moment it emerges in spring through to its dramatic fruiting in late autumn.

Sun: Full shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich, neutral to acid soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: May, Jun, Jul.