Native Bowman's Root

Size

North American native plants are some of the easiest plants to use in the home garden. Typically little maintenance or feeding needs to be done for natives as long as they are planted in their preferred situation. Bowmans Root is one such native plant. Once it is planted, little needs to be done. Native bees and other pollinators will magically appear when Bowmans Root in bloom. The added bonus of red fall foliage make this a must have plant for any naturalized garden spot. Bowmans Root has a very open and free flowing shape. The blooms are light and airy, dancing on red stems through the summer. As the blooms fade the red stems stay around to support the dark brown seedheads. Deer and pest resistant. Pair Bowmans Root with other woodland natives such as Penstemons, Blue Eyed Grass and Campion. Bowmans Root Care Bowmans Root prefers moist, humus rich soil that is well drained. Mulching on a regular basis with organic compost or leaves will help to boost soil moisture retention and fertility. A full sun to part shade place in the garden will encourage the most blooming. Supplemental irrigation must be provided in the first few years. Establishment can be a little difficult if Bowmans Root is not properly watered early on. Herbaceous perennials completely die back to the ground each fall, and shoot into full growth the following spring and summer. The best time to clear away the old foliage is early in the spring as the new growth starts. The old foliage will provide an extra layer of mulch and insulation for plants grown in the coldest of the hardiness zones. Fertilizing is not recommended. Bowmans Root Spacing The mature height and width of Bowmans Root is 2-3 feet. Spacing plants at 3 feet on center is recommended. Dividing every 3-4 years may be necessary to keep plants growing vigorously.