Family Berberidaceae
Garden origin
Huge, 45cm, lobed, umbrella-shaped green leaves with heavy, irregular, chocolate mottled spots make the passer by stop in their tracks. In addition, this amazing woodland perennial has clusters of maroon flowers that hang beneath the leaves followed by ovoid fruits the size of plums in autumn; you may have to get down on hands and knees to see them but they are worth the effort. New leaves are most bold and intensely marked and although they have something of the toad about them, are nevertheless irresistible.
Grow in moist but well-drained soil in shade. May remain evergreen in mild winters in a sheltered spot. Otherwise the leaves die down but it is very hardy.
Height and spread after 1 – 2 years 45cm x 20cm
Mature height and spread after 3 – 4 years 45cm x 45cm