Kerria (aka Japanese Kerria)
Kerria japonica

Hardy to Zone 4
Bloom Time - Early spring (April)
Color - Yellow
Foliage - Bright green, 2" to 4" inch leaves.
Size - 3'-6' ft. height
Exposure - Partial or heavy shade
Soil - Not picky, any well-drained soil
Pruning - Unkempt plants can be sheared to the ground immediately after blooming.

This shrub is also known as the Easter Rose and it seems to be in bloom every year at Easter time. Mature shrubs can be large (6 x 4) with arching branches. The growth is twiggy and airy - it is not a dense shrub. There are two varieties - one has pom-pom type flowers and the other has single flowers (the double 'Pleniflora' is shown at the right). One of the outstanding characteristics of this shrub is that it will bloom in heavy shade. Another nice feature is the branches stay green during the winter. It is very easy to grow and does not require any special conditions. It is outstanding in a shrub border or against a dark colored house. The kerria is a great choice for a difficult shady spot which calls for a large shrub.

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