Kerria is an old-fashioned, deciduous shrub with an upright and arching habit, similar in form to bridalwreath spirea. It grows about 6 to 8 feet tall with an equal spread. It has bright yellow flowers that cover the branches from April to early May. Leaves are oval-to-lance shaped, toothed, with prominent veins. Stems are bright green and retain that color all winter. There are several selections, including 'Pleniflora' which has double-petaled flowers and grows about 8 to 10 feet tall and wide; and 'Golden Guinea' with flowers larger than the species, and growing 6 to 8 feet tall and 5 to 6 feet wide.
Grow in loamy, well-drained soil in part to full shade. Though it can grow in full sun, the flowers will fade quickly and the leaves will look parched and scorched by summer. Blooms on previous years wood, so prune after flowering, either selectively or to renovate (see Guides).