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Description
Kerria Japonica, commonly known as Japanese Kerria, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to China, Japan, and Korea and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant is known for its bright yellow flowers that bloom in early spring and its green stems that turn brownish-red in winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Kerria |
Appearance
Kerria Japonica grows up to 6-8 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide. The plant has green stems that are slender and arching. The leaves are bright green, toothed, and ovate in shape. The flowers are bright yellow and have five petals. They bloom in early spring and continue into early summer. The plant produces small, brownish fruit that ripens in the fall.
Care Guide
Water: Kerria Japonica requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought.Fertilization: The plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, and apply it according to the package instructions.Soil: Kerria Japonica prefers well-drained, fertile soil. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. It can tolerate full sun but may require more frequent watering.Hardiness Zones: Kerria Japonica grows well in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kerria Japonica is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. It can also be affected by aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent these issues, make sure the plant is well-watered and well-fertilized. Prune any infected or damaged branches.
Habitat
Kerria Japonica is native to China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and along stream banks. In gardens, it is often grown as an ornamental plant in borders, hedges, and as a specimen plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Kerria Japonica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Kerria Japonica can be grown in containers. However, make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should I prune Kerria Japonica?
A: Prune Kerria Japonica in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any damaged or diseased branches and shape the plant as desired.Q: Is Kerria Japonica toxic to pets?
A: Kerria Japonica is not toxic to pets.Q: Can Kerria Japonica tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, Kerria Japonica is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Related Plants
- Kerria Japonica ‘Pleniflora’
- Kerria Japonica ‘Golden Guinea’
- Kerria Japonica ‘Alba’
- Kerria Japonica ‘Variegata’
References
- “Kerria japonica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282558. Accessed 15 Oct. 2021.
- “Kerria japonica.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1313/pleniflora/. Accessed 15 Oct. 2021.
- “Kerria japonica.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13628/kerria-japonica/details. Accessed 15 Oct. 2021.
