Plant Type

Shrub

 

Height Range

6-12'

 

Flower Color

Yellow

 

Flower Season

Spring

 

Leaf Color

Green

 

Bark Color

Green

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Half, Shade

 

Water

Medium

 

Growth Rate

Moderate

 

Soil Type

Clay, Loam

 

Soil Condition

Average, Rich, Well-drained

 

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

English Cottage, Japanese, Woodland

 

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers

 

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring

 

Location Uses

Background, Shrub Border, Foundation, Walls / Fences

 

Special Uses

Cut Flowers, Hedge, Screen

 

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

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).