Large-leaved Pachyphragma

An attractive and useful little plant, perfect for a shady spot, Pachyphragma macrophyllum is a semi-evergreen perennial with a low, compact habit; it doesn’t spread. The basal leaves are round and scalloped, and mid-green, forming rosettes that may persist through winter. In spring, flat clusters of four-petalled, white, crucifer-like flowers appear, followed by little green fruits. Large-leaved pachyphragma makes excellent ground-cover under deciduous trees and shrubs, and is pretty with lime-green and blue flowers, like euphorbias and scillas. It may need a little tidying-up in early spring, but is otherwise very low maintenance, though keep an eye out for slugs.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any moderately fertile, humus-rich, leafy, reliably moist or poorly drained soil
Position: Partial shade; tolerates full shade
Season of interest: All year, spring in particular
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: 20”’ (50cm) Spread: 39” (1m) in 2-5 years