Herb: Umbrella Leaf


Latin name: Diphylleia cymosa


Family: Berberidaceae (Barberry Family)



Medicinal use of Umbrella Leaf:

A tea made from the roots is antiseptic, diaphoretic and diuretic. An infusion has been used in the treatment of smallpox. This is a very rare plant in the wild, so little research has been carried out into its medicinal virtues. However, it is believed that the root might contain podophyllin, an effective anti-cancer agent.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
70 cm
(2 feet)

Flowering:
May to
July

Habitat of the herb:

Very rare in the wild, growing in rich woods in mountains, thriving by streams.

Propagation of Umbrella Leaf:

Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. The seed is very slow to germinate, usually taking a year or more. Sow stored seed as soon as possible in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring.

Cultivation of the herb:

Very rare in the wild, growing in rich woods in mountains, thriving by streams.

Known hazards of Diphylleia cymosa:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.