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Saruma spp.
upright wild ginger
Overview
Saruma is a genus in the birthwort family (Aristolochiaceae) represented by a single species, S. henryi, native to central China. It is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial growing 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) tall and slowly spreading to a similar width. The soft, heart-shaped leaves are 3-5 inches (8-13 cm) long, matte mid-green, and finely hairy on both surfaces. Pale yellow flowers about 0.75 inch (2 cm) across have three rounded petals and appear at the stem tips from mid-spring into summer, with scattered later flowers continuing through the season. Stems and leaves rise from a short rhizome, forming a low mound. Foliage dies back to the ground in autumn and regrows in spring. Growth is slow, and clumps take several years to fill a 12-inch (30 cm) space. In hot climates the leaf margins scorch where afternoon sun is strong, and the plant grows more reliably in moist, shaded woodland soil.
Native Range
Native to central China, including Hubei, Sichuan, and neighboring provinces. Grows in moist, shaded forest understory and along stream banks in humus-rich soil at moderate elevations.Suggested Uses
Grown in shaded borders, woodland gardens, and along shaded paths, spaced 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) apart. The low mound suits underplanting beneath shrubs and at the front of shade beds. It spreads slowly and does not form quick ground cover.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height8" - 1'
Width/Spread10" - 1'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Mid-greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight