Darmera

Darmera peltata, the umbrella plant, is a dramatic architectural perennial suited to the moist, sheltered, pond-edge and streamside settings of Martha's Vineyard, where consistent moisture availability supports its extraordinary large, shield-like leaves that can reach two feet across in ideal conditions. It thrives in the seasonally wet soils bordering the island's freshwater ponds in West Tisbury and Edgartown, making it one of the boldest textural statements available in the wet-edge planting palette. Pale pink flowers emerge before the leaves in early spring on bare stalks, providing an unusual seasonal sequence quite different from most companion perennials.

Deer generally avoid it due to its size and texture. Estate Care professionals feature it in naturalistic water garden and pond-edge designs where bold, sculptural foliage interest is the primary objective and available moisture is reliable through the growing season.