Chloranthus erectus has been a staple in our woodland shade garden since 2004 and is quite different from other chloranthus as it is very late to emerge...often not before late June due to our cold winters. Native from near sea level to 6,000' elevation, over a wide range from the Himalayas to southeast Asia, the 2' tall clump (taller in warmer climates) is adorned with long, glossy green leaves and topped with terminal spikes of white pipe cleaner-like flowers in October...long after the other spring-flowered chloranthus have finished (flowers earlier in warmer winter climates). Outside of gardening circles, Chloranthus erectus has long been prized for its many medicinal values...as a female aphrodisiac, a contraceptive, a treatment for fevers and body aches, and as a cure for venereal disease...you're sure to be a hit on the party scene when you show up with your chloranthus in hand.
