Japanese Yellow Sage (Salvia koyamae): Shade-Tolerant Groundcover with Pale Blooms

Japanese Yellow Sage: A Woodland Groundcover for Dry Shade

Salvia koyamae is a Japanese woodland native that excels as a small-scale groundcover in dry shade. Its spreading, hairy green leaves (hand-sized) form wide clumps via stems that root as they touch the ground. Creamy yellow flower spikes appear sporadically from summer to fall—a bonus to the attractive foliage. It contrasts beautifully with fine-textured shade perennials and isn't fussy about soil pH or type.

Shade Garden Champion

• Thrives in dry shade—rare for salvias
• Spreading habit via rooting stems; easy to transplant
• Hand-sized hairy green leaves
• Creamy yellow flowers summer to fall
• Not fussy about soil
• Height: 18–24 inches; Spread: 18–24 inches

Growing Conditions

• Light: Part shade only
• Soil: Any; not pH sensitive
• Water: Dry
• Maintenance: Low

Propagation

Simply transplant any piece of rooted stem.

Quick Reference

Height/Spread:	18–24 inches
Light:	Part shade
Bloom Time:	Summer, fall
Flower Color:	Yellow
Foliage:	Green, hairy
Uses:	Shade borders, groundcover, dry shade, woodland gardens