Mayapple

What is a mayapple plant and where is it commonly found?

The mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Berberidaceae family. It is characterized by its umbrella-like, lobed leaves and a single, cup-shaped white flower that blooms between April and June. While the plant produces an edible yellow fruit when ripe, its unripened fruit and rhizomes are toxic. Notably, the rhizomes contain compounds used in medicinal treatments for conditions such as genital warts and certain cancers.¹²

This plant is native to eastern North America and is most commonly found growing in shady areas with moist, rich soil. Because of its distinct appearance, it is often cultivated as an attractive specimen for shaded wild gardens.¹

How tall does a typical mayapple plant grow, and what is its growth cycle?

A typical mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) plant grows to a height of 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches).¹

Regarding its growth cycle, the mayapple is a perennial herbaceous plant that emerges from rhizomes (fleshy underground stems). Its development is marked by the following stages:¹

• Foliage: The plant produces dark green, umbrella-like leaves that can reach nearly 30 cm across and feature five to seven lobes.¹
• Flowering: A single, cup-shaped white flower with six to nine petals appears between April and June.¹
• Fruiting: Following the flowering period, the plant produces a yellow berry. While this fruit is edible when fully ripe, it is important to note that the unripened fruit is toxic.¹

What is the scientific name of the mayapple plant and what family does it belong to?

The scientific name of the mayapple is Podophyllum peltatum. It belongs to the Berberidaceae family, which is part of the Ranunculales order.⁴¹²

What are the distinctive features of the mayapple’s leaves and flowers?

The mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) possesses distinct foliage and floral characteristics that make it a recognizable specimen in shady, moist environments:

Leaves

The plant features large, dark green, umbrella-like leaves that can measure nearly 30 cm (about 12 inches) across. These leaves are peltate—meaning the stalk attaches to the center of the leaf blade—and are deeply divided into five to seven lobes.¹³

Flowers

The mayapple produces a single, solitary flower that typically appears between April and June. This flower is cup-shaped and measures approximately 2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) in diameter. It is characterized by its six to nine white petals, which provide a stark contrast to the plant’s dark green foliage.¹³