Twinleaf

Jeffersonia diphylla, known as Twinleaf or Rheumatism Root, is an uncommon Spring wildflower in the Berberidaceae family. Jeffersonia was named after U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, who grew it on his stately property, Monticello. This plant is often used in rock gardens or as ground cover in woodland gardens. Since it prefers neutral soils to alkaline, it can be planted near concrete foundations and lawns, especially if treated with lime.

The Growth Of Twinleaf

Twinleaf grows slowly and rarely grows over 12 inches while blooming, but it can extend up to 18 inches by the time its fruit ripens. It features large flat leaves that can be up to 6 inches long. The leaves sit at the ends of long stems that sprout from the rhizome and are divided in a way resembling butterfly wings, giving the appearance of being two separate leaves.

The Stunning Flowers Of Twinleaf

In the Spring, before the forest canopy appears in April or May, lovely white flowers, each with eight pedals, appear at the end of leafless stalks. These cup-shaped flowers are short-lived, with the pedals falling off soon after flowering. The fruit is a pod resembling a small pear with a hinged top. The plant relies on ants to disperse its seeds, and while it has no significant problems with insects or disease, it is susceptible to snails and slugs.

Where To Plant Twinleaf

Twinleaf grows in the USDA hardiness zones 5 through 8. It can be found in Eastern North America, especially in the Great Lakes region, the Ohio Valley, and the Appalachians, from Ontario to Alabama and West to Wisconsin. This attractive plant typically grows in the damp, rich limestone soils of deciduous forests and near rivers. While the plant can tolerate heavy shade conditions, it prefers a partly shady environment. The ideal situation is under the canopies of large trees, where it can receive adequate sun in the Spring and be well-shaded from the summer sun's heat.