Japanese Kerria Plant Care
Kerria japonica (L.) DC.
Kerria japonica, commonly known as Japanese kerria or Japanese rose, is a deciduous, yellow-flowering shrub in the rose family (Rosaceae), native to China and Japan. It is the only species in the genus Kerria.
Every 7–10 days
Partial shade to full sun
0–90°F
40–70%
What Is the Japanese Kerria?
Japanese Kerria (Kerria japonica) belongs to the Rosaceae family within the Kerria genus. Japanese Kerria is native to China and Japan. Japanese Kerria is also known as Japanese Rose, Jew's Mallow.
Japanese Kerria displays an upright, spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 6 inches tall with a spread of approximately 6 inches. Japanese Kerria produces yellow, pom-pom shaped flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Japanese Kerria?
Kerria japonica requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Japanese Kerria Need?
Japanese Kerria thrives in partial shade to full sun light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–1000 lux. Avoid placing Japanese Kerria in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Partial shade to full sun
100–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Japanese Kerria Prefer?
Kerria japonica grows best at temperatures between 0°F and 90°F. Japanese Kerria prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
0–90°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Japanese Kerria?
Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Japanese Kerria to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Japanese Kerria?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Japanese Kerria?
Japanese Kerria can be propagated through softwood cuttings, division, layering.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Japanese Kerria Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Japanese Kerria?
Japanese Kerria is susceptible to aphids, japanese beetles, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
Keep exploring plants
Japanese Kerria is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Kerria genus — compare its care with other Kerria species on PlantoScan.
Japanese Kerria tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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