Yellow wax bells (Kirengeshoma palmata)
Yellow wax bells
Kirengeshoma palmata is a somewhat shrubby, herbaceous perennial with erect, purplish stems typically growing 3-5′ tall. Features coarsely toothed, deeply lobed, maple-like leaves (to 8″ across) which are perhaps the most outstanding feature of the plant. Narrow, drooping, waxy, bell-shaped yellow flowers (5″ long) appear in both terminal and upper leaf axillary clusters (cymes), usually three flowers per cluster, from late summer to early autumn. Flowers give way to somewhat grotesquely interesting, three-horned, brownish-green seed capsules. Sometimes commonly called yellow waxbells. Some authorities include northeast China in this plant’s native range.
Genus name comes from the Japanese name for a yellow-flowered perennial, from ki meaning yellow, renge meaning lotus blossom and shoma meaning hat.
Specific epithet means palmate for leaf shape.
Best grown in moist, acidic, humusy, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade.
Hardiness zone | 5 - 8 |
Sun light | Part shade to full shade |
Water | Medium |
Maintenance | Low |
No serious insect or disease problems.
Unique and interesting plant for the shaded border or woodland garden.
Common name | Yellow wax bells |
Botanical name | Kirengeshoma palmata |
Plant type | Herbaceous perennial |
Family | Hydrangeaceae |
Hardiness zone | 5 - 8 |
Water | Medium |
Maintenance | Low |
Flower color | Yellow |
Flowering period | June - July |
Height | 3 - 4 ft. |
Width | 2 - 3 ft. |