Skill Level: Intermediate
Saruma henryi is a refined woodland perennial from central China, perfectly suited to rich, humusy soil, consistent moisture, and dappled shade. Its velvety, heart shaped leaves form a tidy clump, and in spring it produces soft yellow, three petalled flowers that float just above the foliage. Mature plants reach 18–24″ tall and are hardy in zone 8, thriving wherever woodland conditions are steady and cool.
Seed handling is often described as difficult, but that’s only because the seeds are recalcitrant—they cannot dry out without losing viability. When sourced through Spirithouse Garden Seeds, this challenge disappears: we moist-pack all Saruma seed, ensuring it arrives fresh, hydrated, and ready to sow.
Our Seed Germination Experience
Seeds prefer fluctuating temperatures, beginning with a period of warmth followed by a long, natural cooling phase. We sow ours immediately when seed ripens in July, allowing summer warmth to initiate the first stage. Then we move them to an unheated greenhouse in early winter before the cold rains begin. Germination occurs in the coldest part of winter—typically February, when temperatures drop to around 4°C. Once seedlings emerge, growth is steady, and plants usually reach flowering size in 2 years. The texture and form of Saruma is a welcomed addition to an interesting woodland garden.
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