Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Kirengeshoma palmata
Yellow Wax Bells
- Family
- Hydrangeaceae
- Height
- 36 to 48 in
- Width
- 24 to 36 in
- Flower color
- Waxy pale yellow nodding bell-shaped blooms on arching stems
- Foliage color
- Soft yellow-green maple-like leaves forming bold textured clumps
- Bloom time
- Late summer into early fall
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Average
- Maintenance
- Low; cut back stems after frost and mulch to retain moisture
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 8
- Wildlife
- Bees and other late-season pollinators
About this plant
Kirengeshoma palmata develops broad, maple-shaped leaves of soft green that create a lush, gently arching presence through the growing season. In late summer to early autumn, pendent, waxy yellow bells emerge along upright stems, their smooth petals and quiet glow bringing fresh color when many woodland perennials begin to fade. The measured unfolding of buds extends the floral display and adds a sense of calm continuity in shaded garden settings.
Native to cool mountain woodlands of Japan and Korea, it reflects a long association with moist forest margins and sheltered slopes. Steady seasonal growth and late flowering lend enduring structure and soft brightness to shaded borders and contemplative plantings.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Bleeding hearts · Solomon's seal · Ferns · Lungworts · Wild ginger · Hellebores
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at Powellswood Garden.
