Bowman’s root
Bowman’s root (Porteranthus trifoliatus) as a good example of a plant providing interest in each season.
Bowman’s root is a native plant to eastern North America from Ontario south to Georgia, east of the Mississippi River. Specimens can grow up to 4 ft. tall with a spread of 3 ft. Plants grow best in full-sun to partial sun.
The species puts on a great display of showy, 5-petaled star-like flowers in spring-to-early summer. Flowers fade as the heat of summer comes, leaving beautiful red-colored calyces through late summer into fall. As the cooler weather of fall approaches, the leaves of P. trifoliatus begin to take on spectacular yellow-golden tones set against dark red-to-brown stems. Over winter textural interest is maintained by the upright, wire-like brown stems and remnants of leaves.
| Botanical Name | Porteranthus trifoliatus |
| Common Name | Bowman’s root |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| USDA Zone | 4 thru 8 |
| Light Requirement | Full Sun to Part Shade |
| Season(s) of interest | Summer, Fall, Winter |
| Height and Spread |
2-4ft x 1.5-3ft (60-120cm x 45-90cm)
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| Flower Color | White |
| Attracts Wildlife | |
| Additional Information |
Native to US Midwest. Also known as Gillenia trifoliata.
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| Location in Lurie Garden |
East Dark Plate, Southwest Dark Plate
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