Rodgersia

( rod - JERZ - ee - uh )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of perennial flowering plants needs partial shade in the warmest climates and ample amounts of water. They are perfect for woodland gardens, and are native to China and Japan. Prized for their handsome foliage that turns bronze in late summer, Rodgersia has flower spikes that resemble Astilbe and bloom in late summertime. These plants will spread freely by rhizome. 

Rodgersia Species and Varietals

The genus Rodgersia is a member of the plant family Saxifragaceae and includes  five species. The best growing zones for Rodgersia are 2-9 and 14-17. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Rodgersia aesculifolia
This species reaches 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide, and have leaves that resemble Aesculus. Star-shaped flowers are white or pink and bloom in terminal branched panicles in summertime. These plants are native to China.

​Rodgersia pinnata
This species reaches 4 feet tall and 2.5 feet wide. Flowers are red. Varieties include 'Chocolate Wing' (with brown, bronze and green foliage and red flowers), 'Fireworks' (with red-tinged leaves and pink-red flowers), and 'Superba' (with bronze foliage and bright pink flowers). This species is native to Sichuan and Yunnan provinces of China.

​Rodgersia podophylla
This species, growing to 5 feet tall and 6 feet wide, has coppery green leaves and cream-colored flowers. Plants are native to Japan and Korea, where it grows in shaded, damp areas in acidic to neutral soils. They are hardy to -4 degrees Fahrenheit, but enjoy sheltered locations. Cultivar 'Rotlaub' is a compact varietal.

​Rodgersia sambucifolia
This species reaches three feet tall and wide and flat-topped clusters of pink or white flowers. Leaves are large and green with prominent veining. Blooms appear in late spring through the summer season.

Caring for Rodgersia

These plants need rich soil and room to spread. They go dormant in wintertime and need to be mulched in the wintertime to protect the roots from freezing. 

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

Wikipedia: Rodgersia
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 567, Rodgersia
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
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