Not many nurseries grow a good range of Hepaticas, and this is a pity as in early spring they do put on a wonderful display of flowers.
A number of species are garden worthy, including Hepatica Nobilus, Hepatica transsilvanica, Hepatica japonica and Hepatica yamatutai, all grow naturally in shaded areas such as deciduous forests.
In Japan they are very popular and have been widely hybridised, flower colors vary from white to blue and pink, flower forms also vary, including doubles, semi doubles and singles.
Although they are evergreen in warmer climates they do require a little protection in the colder areas of the UK.
They prefer a well drained situation and mulch in autumn will be of benefit. All hepatica species require a cool root run so ensure this and you will have happy hepaticas. Hepaticas can be grown in the garden or in pots or containers and are readily available for sale from Online Plant Nurseries and Mail Order Nurseries.
Try growing hepaticas in the garden in an environment that would mimic the natural growing habit, deciduous trees provide the shade required, are a natural form of mulch and the root systems of large trees usually means good drainage.
- Planting near the drip-line of evergreen trees also works, as long as the drainage is good.
- Many growers choose a shaded position in the rock garden. Hepaticas also grow well in pots or troughs.
- Avoid burying the growing tip when planting hepaticas purchased online, divide in late spring.
- In colder areas grow Hepaticas in containers.
Hepatica flowers range from white through to mauve and pink depending on species. Some species are hardier than others.
- Hepatica nobilis has the widest range of colours and is more frost tolerant than the Japanese varieties. Look for a soil pH of around 6.6 - 7
- Hepatica transsilvanica has the largest flowers but a smaller colour range.
- Hepatica japonica (yes it's a japanese species) is a lovely plant but rare in cultivation. However the named cultivars are available and these present some of the prettiest flowers in the genus. Taller than most they will reach to 20 cm ( 8 inches). Look for a soil Ph of around 5.5 - 6.
- With 9 different flower types all with Japanese names :
- Hepatica americana - Regarded as semi hardy, flower colors are from a soft mauve to lavender with pinks and white. Generally reaching 12 cm (5 inches) in height.
and plants are available for sale from the following nurseries
EDROM NURSERIES - phone 018907 71386
Coldingham Eyemouth Berwickshire TD14 5TZ
Specializing in Hardy orchids, Meconopsis, Gentians, Hepatica, Trillium and many other unusual alpine and shade loving perennials. We specialise in mail order across Europe.