Hepatica acutiloba (Liverwort, Sharp-lobed hepatica, Heart Liver Leaf)

Botanical Information

GenusHepatica
Speciesacutiloba
CategoryPerennials, Wildflowers & Weeds
OriginNative to the eastern part of North America.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer		No longer a popular herbal remedy but it does act as a mild astringent and diuretic. Hepatica was viewed as the cure-all for most ailments. The Greeks would prescribe this plant for liver disorders. In North America, Native Americans used this plant as a tea to sooth coughs, irritated throats and a wash for sore breasts.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone4a
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone3a - 7a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Height30 cm
Spread15 - 30 cm
GrowthSlow
Flowering PeriodJuly, August

Description and Growing Information

ShapeClump-forming.
LandscapeGarden use and ground cover.
PropagationDivision and seed.
CultivationFull sun and partial-shade. Well-drained, semi-rich soil with a neutral pH. Frost tolerant.
PestsRust and leaf smut. Susceptible to slug damage.
Notable SpecimensJoany's Woods, West Williams, Middlesex County, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatWoodlands.
Leaf DescriptionBroad, 3-lobed, heart-shaped leaves that are 5 cm wide. The underside of the leaves have tiny dense hairs.
Flower DescriptionFlowers are 2 - 3 cm in diameter. No petals but presents a showy bracts surrounding sepals.
Fruit DescriptionOblong and sharp-pointed, 2 - 3 cm long and are covered in little hairs.
Colour DescriptionThe leaves are green to dark green and in autumn turn a russet and purple throughout the winter. The flowers are pale pink or purple to pure white in colour.
Texture DescriptionUpper surface of the leaves are smooth. The fruit appears hairy.

Photographs