Kerria japonica aka Jew's Mallow

Taxonomy

Kerria japonica, also known as Japanese kerria or Japanese rose, is a deciduous shrub in the rose family. Native to China, Japan, and Korea, it thrives in thickets on mountain slopes. Growing up to 7 feet tall, this shade garden plant features slender, arching green stems and toothed leaves that turn pale yellow in autumn. With a well-drained soil and medium fertilization, Japanese kerria produces beautiful terminal bright yellow flowers that can reach heights of 1 to 11 inches. This versatile plant has been used for medicinal purposes and is commonly found in gardens. Additionally, the double-flowered cultivar, K. japonica 'Pleniflora', is popularly referred to as bachelor's buttons.

Common names

Jew's Mallow, Japanese Kerria, Japan Globeflower, Japan Kerria, Japanese Rose

How to care for Jew's Mallow

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Jew's Mallow is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Jew's Mallow should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Jew's Mallow loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Jew's Mallow prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Jew's Mallow should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Jew's Mallow’s native range is E. Asia - China, Japan. A rare garden escape in Britain.


More info:
Wikipedia