Saruma bears stems and leaves that are densely pubescent, giving the plant an overall silvery, felted look early in the season. Its one-inch, pale yellow flowers have three petals and are borne at the tips of each stem in spring and intermittently through late summer. It forms an upright perennial, 2 feet high by 2.5 feet wide, with heart-shaped leaves that fan out horizontally in all directions. This Chinese native is choice for the woodland garden as a single specimen or in drifts.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsThe sole species, Saruma henryi , is as sublime as it is uncommon. Its velvety leaves and distinctively-shaped, soft yellow flowers make it a superb specimen in a shady border, where it can contrast with more finely-textured plants.
CareGrow in partial to full shade in moist or slightly dry, well-drained soil; tolerates both alkaline and acid soils.
PropagationSow seed while fresh; propagates easily by tissue culture.
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