Fringe cups
Tellima grandiflora · Saxifragaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant fringe cups: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen to evergreen depending on climate
- Blooming
- Spring (April to June)
- Mature size
- 12 to 24 inches tall, 18 inches spread
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to −5 °F
- Origin
- Pacific Coast of North America
- Soil type
- Rich in organic matter, well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist without waterlogging, especially during growth. Reduce watering slightly in winter. The plant appreciates cool, humid air; a mulch layer helps retain moisture at the roots.
Light
Plant in partial shade or light shade. Tellima tolerates partial shade and prefers areas without intense direct sun, which can scorch the foliage in summer. It adapts well to wooded areas.
Soil and Growing Medium
Enrich the soil with compost or peat to ensure good moisture retention. Deep, well-structured soil that's slightly acidic promotes beautiful growth. Improve drainage if the soil is too compact.
Pruning and Maintenance
Remove damaged or dead leaves as needed. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Light pruning after flowering keeps a compact, bushy shape.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring or well-decomposed compost. A single application usually suffices for the year. Avoid excess nitrogen, which favors foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and Pests
Tellima is generally hardy. Watch for slugs and snails that enjoy moisture. Powdery mildew can appear in overly dry air; improve air circulation and humidity. Waterlogged soil may cause root rot.
Did you know?
Tellima grandiflora was once used by Indigenous peoples of the American Pacific Northwest, not for its flowers but for its mineral-rich edible leaves. In Europe, this subtle yet elegant plant has become a shade garden star, particularly prized for the delicate effect of its small pink bell-shaped flowers and purple-mottled foliage.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.