Culver's Root

Culver's Root is a great architectural plant in the garden. Initially slow growing, it matures into a large plant with star-shaped whorls of leaves topped by long, white flower spikes. The plant resembles a large candelabra when it blooms in early summer and is very attractive to pollinators. It is prone to powdery mildew, a non-serious leaf disease that turns leaves white, so it looks best when tucked behind or within other flowers. The plant is sturdy when grown in the sun, but in a part shade garden it needs staking or can be cut back in early summer to reduce the height.

• Well established plants can benefit from a "Chelsea Chop" - trim growing stems roughly in half in late spring to reduce overall height and improve business
• Taller stems, especially in partial shade, may benefit from staking to maintain structure
• Consider deadheading spent flowers to prolong bloom time