Yellow wax bells (Kirengeshoma palmata)

Yellow wax bells

Features and Characteristics

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.

yellow wax bells (Kirengeshoma palmata)

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in moist, acidic, humusy, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade.

Yellow wax bells (Kirengeshoma palmata) Requirements

Hardiness zone 5 - 8
Sun light Part shade to full shade
Water Medium
Maintenance Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Unique and interesting plant for the shaded border or woodland garden.

 

Yellow wax bells (Kirengeshoma palmata) Details

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.