Boenninghausenia japonica
shrub

Japanese Boenninghausenia

Boenninghausenia japonica

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Boenninghausenia japonica is a delicate, herbaceous perennial with fern-like, aromatic, blue-green foliage and panicles of small, white, star-shaped flowers that bloom from mid-summer into fall. This species is valued for its fragrant foliage and its ability to attract pollinators, making it an attractive and functional addition to woodland and shrub borders.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides aromatic foliage and subtle flowers, enhancing garden scent and visual appeal.
Practical UsesDrought tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators with late-summer blooms.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
  3. Place in full sun for best flowering and aroma.
  4. Prune lightly after flowering to shape the shrub.
  5. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune after flowering for a tidy shape
  • Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Overwater, avoid soggy soil ❌
  • Heavy fertilization that encourages leggy growth ❌
  • Neglect pruning, which can lead to overgrown shape ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant border plantDrought-tolerant shrub for xeriscaping

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Russian sage Sedum Yarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Boenninghausenia questions

What zones can Japanese Boenninghausenia grow in?

Japanese Boenninghausenia is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Japanese Boenninghausenia deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Japanese Boenninghausenia, especially tender spring growth β€” plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Japanese Boenninghausenia bloom?

Japanese Boenninghausenia typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Japanese Boenninghausenia need full sun?

Japanese Boenninghausenia does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Japanese Boenninghausenia with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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