Salvia koyamae, commonly known as Japanese Yellow Sage, is a deciduous perennial herb native to the forest edges and shaded stream banks of Japan. This plant typically forms a loose ground cover about 1 foot tall with decumbent stems that can reach 2 feet or more, giving it a lax, creeping habit. The large, heart-shaped (cordate) leaves are a distinctive yellow-green, covered with fine hairs, and measure approximately 6 inches in length and 5 inches in width, with a petiole of similar length. Pale yellow flowers bloom in whorls on inflorescences up to 1 foot long, with only a few flowers open at any given time, contributing to the plant’s subtle charm.

Japanese Yellow Sage is appreciated for its attractive foliage and delicate pale yellow flowers, which add a soft color to shaded garden areas. It is often used as a ground cover in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized areas. While it is not particularly drought-tolerant, it does require well-drained soil and thrives in part shade with consistent moisture. It is relatively low maintenance, but gardeners should be mindful of slug and snail damage, which can be a problem in moist, shaded environments. This species is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease issues. It is also not considered invasive when grown outside its native range, making it a responsible choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of Japan’s natural beauty to their landscapes.CC BY-SA 4.0