From our perspective, the most critical space is the one you cannot see: the underground realm of our roots. We are not aggressive colonizers like some plants, but we do form a dense, mat-like cluster of fibrous roots and brittle rhizomes. To thrive, we require soil that is loose, rich in organic matter, and, most importantly, well-draining. We despise having our "feet" sitting in water, as this leads to rot and our swift demise. A planting hole that is at least twice as wide as the root ball you purchased allows our tender new roots to push out into the surrounding soil with ease, establishing a strong foundation for the seasons to come.
Above the soil, our arching stems and delicate, heart-shaped flowers need room to perform their graceful dance. We typically grow to a mature height and spread of 2 to 3 feet. Crowding us too closely with other aggressive perennials forces us into a stressful competition for sunlight. While we prefer the dappled shade of a woodland setting, we still need ample filtered light to photosynthesize and produce our iconic blooms. Proper spacing of approximately 2 to 2.5 feet between each plant ensures our foliage dries quickly after rain or morning dew, which is vital for preventing powdery mildew and other foliar diseases that thrive in stagnant, damp air.
You must understand that our need for space changes with the seasons. We are ephemeral by nature. In early spring, we burst forth from the earth, quickly growing our foliage and flowering profusely. This is when we demand the most from our environment. However, as the summer heat intensifies, our foliage begins to yellow and wither. We are not dying; we are simply entering our dormant phase. It is crucial that you do not immediately plant something else directly on top of us. Our dormant roots are still alive underground, resting and gathering energy for next spring's show. Allow us this period of quiet, undisturbed space to ensure we return with vigor the following year.
Thriving is not just about physical distance; it's about harmonious companionship. We appreciate being planted alongside other shade-loving plants that respect our space and needs. Ideal neighbors are those with shallow root systems that do not aggressively compete with ours for nutrients and moisture, such as hostas, ferns, or astilbe. These companions help create a living mulch, conserving soil moisture and keeping the root zone cool, which we greatly appreciate. They fill the gap we leave behind in mid-summer, ensuring the garden remains beautiful even while we rest.
