Upright Wild Ginger

(Saruma henryi)

Upright Wild Ginger (Saruma henryi)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Saruma henryi, commonly known as Upright Wild Ginger, is a deciduous perennial herb native to the forest understories and shaded slopes of North Central and South Central China. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters), featuring heart-shaped leaves and an upright growth habit, which is unusual among its mostly ground-hugging relatives. The plant produces small, three-petaled, pale yellow flowers in the spring, which are modestly showy and provide a unique aesthetic compared to the more common reddish-brown flowers of other wild gingers.

Upright Wild Ginger is valued for its ease of maintenance and its ability to thrive in shaded conditions, making it a suitable choice for woodland gardens, shade gardens, and as an understory plant in larger landscapes. It is also appreciated for its ornamental foliage and the subtle charm of its flowers. Gardeners should plant Saruma henryi in humus-rich, well-drained soil and ensure consistent moisture without waterlogging. While generally disease-free, it can occasionally suffer from slug damage. This species is not known for being invasive or having aggressive roots, making it a safe choice for most garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-2 feet
  • Width: 1.5-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Forest understories and shaded slopes in North Central and South Central China

Other Names

Common Names: Ma Ti Xiang

Scientific Names: , Saruma henryi,

GBIF Accepted Name: Saruma henryi Oliv.