Rodgersia

Native to China and Japan, this spectacular genus will grow in ordinary garden soil, but give it a rich moist home along a pond, stream or marshy area and it will thrive. Rodgersias are fine structural specimens characterized by fleshy brownish black rhizomes, which remain visible through winter. The numerous unpetaled flowers, colored by intriguing creamy-salmon sepals and stamens, are borne on large panicles, and when in bud look almost like miniature cauliflowers. And, be warned! The textured, dark green leaves can spread to a foot across, so be sure to provide these plants with plenty of space.