Published in the
Contra Costa Times on
Q. Can I grow Kirengeshoma
here?
A. These plants are members of the
saxifrage family from Japan, and like so many plants from that part of the
planet, they prefer growing conditions with loose, acidic, friable garden soil
with a high organic content, ample moisture with good drainage and part shade. If
this describes your garden, these dramatic plants will grow well. If you live
in one of the hotter, inland area with alkaline soil and high clay content, the
plants are unlikely to thrive.
Kirengeshoma produces long
shoots that arise from thick rhizomes to a height of 2-3’ with bright green
leaves. The bell-shaped yellow blossoms bloom in the late summer-early fall. It
is an attractive plant for woodland settings.