Achlys triphylla

42.1467514, -87.79180145

42.14675903, -87.79180145

Vanilla Leaf

Native to the Pacific coast of North America, this little plant in the barberry family grows in woodlands on the west slopes of the Cascade Mountains. With a growth habit similar to mayapple, the plants grow into colonies. Each plant has a stem 8-10” tall topped with a compound leaf divided into three leaflets with wavy leaf margins. In late spring to early summer, one-foot stems topped with spikes of tiny, fragrant white flowers appear. The dried foliage has a vanilla scent. We are trialing this plant on Spider Island, testing its hardiness. Other common names include “deer foot” and “sweet-after-death” - a name we would prefer not to use.

Soil:
Moist
Plant Shape:
Upright
Exposure:
Partial Shade
Full Shade
Bloom Time:
May - June
Bloom Color:
White
Landscape Use:
Bedding or Border
Understory
Plant Type:
Perennial
Hardiness Zone:
7 - 9