Mukgenia, 'Nova Flame'

Plant of the Week June 12, 2023

Mukgenia, 'Nova Flame'

By: Jeannette Siddons, Anoka County Master Gardener

Need a plant for shade? Mukgenia, a cross between bergenia and mukdenia, thrives in part sun to full shade. It has thick, serrated, and glossy leaves that make stunning fall foliage. It is low maintenance once established, but it requires moist, well-drained, and fertile soil. It will not tolerate dry soil.

Mukegenia is hardy in Zones 3-9. Plants grow 8 to 10 inches tall and 12 to 16 inches wide. Mukgenia spreads moderately from rhizomes and has a clumping growth habit.

Excellent companion plants include Brunnera, hostas, and Jacob's Ladder.

In spring the plant leaves show their first peek of red color. From April through May, dark pink flowers bloom above the foliage. In fall, the leaves start to turn red at the tip and this coloration continues until the whole leaf is magenta red.

There are no disease or pest problems. Hummingbirds and butterflies enjoy the flowers.