GILLENIA (Gille'nia)

DESCRIPTION: These perennials are found wild in northeast North America. They are commonly known as Bowmans Root and Indian Physic. G. trifoliata forms upright clumps of olive-green leaves, which are divided into oval-oblong leaflets. They turn red in the fall. The dainty, white flowers have 5 thin petals and grow on wiry, red stems in the summer. This plant grows 3 or 4 feet high with a spread of 2 feet.

POTTING: Grow these plants in any well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded position. They might be difficult to establish, but are worth the attempt.

PROPAGATION: Seeds may be sown in the fall or spring or they may be divided at planting time.

VARIETIES: G. trifoliata; G. stipulata.

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