Overview

Kirengeshoma palmata is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Kirengeshoma, part of the Hydrangeaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.6–1.2 metres tall. Kirengeshoma palmata grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and flower borders and beds. It is native to China Southeast, Japan and Korea.

About

Kirengeshoma palmata, the yellow wax-bells, is a species of flowering plant in the family Hydrangeaceae, native to Japan and eastern China. It is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial growing to 60–120 cm (24–47 in) tall by 75 cm (30 in) broad, with sycamore-like palmate leaves, and fleshy, pale yellow flowers borne on slender maroon stems in late summer.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Kirengeshoma palmata

About the genus

Kirengeshoma is a genus containing two species of plants in the hydrangea family. Both are clump-forming perennials native to Eastern Asia, with sycamore-like palmate leaves and nodding, waxy yellow flowers on slender stalks, growing in shady environments. They are grown as garden plants in temperate regions of the world.

Wikipedia contributors, "Kirengeshoma", CC BY-SA 4.0Kirengeshoma

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Kirengeshoma

Sunlight
Full shade, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Kirengeshoma palmata size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
herbaceous perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.6–1.2 metres
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Flower borders and beds
Native to
China Southeast, Japan, Korea

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Kirengeshoma palmata

Cultivation
Prefers humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil in shaded or semi-shaded positions. Avoids dry or exposed sites.
Pruning
Remove dead or damaged stems after flowering; cut back to ground level in late autumn or early spring.
Propagation
Seed, Division
Pest resistance
Susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Kirengeshoma palmata?

Prefers humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil in shaded or semi-shaded positions. Avoids dry or exposed sites.

Where is the best place to plant Kirengeshoma palmata?

Kirengeshoma palmata prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Kirengeshoma palmata need?

Kirengeshoma palmata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Kirengeshoma palmata?

Remove dead or damaged stems after flowering; cut back to ground level in late autumn or early spring.

How big does Kirengeshoma palmata grow?

Kirengeshoma palmata reaches a height of 0.6–1.2 metres.

Is Kirengeshoma palmata hardy in the UK?

Kirengeshoma palmata has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Kirengeshoma palmata?

Seed, Division.