Distylium Emerald Heights® (Evergreen Distylium)

Distylium Emerald Heights® is an attractive, low-maintenance evergreen shrub gaining popularity in landscaping for its versatility and aesthetic appeal.

Distylium Emerald Heights®: An In-depth Look

Distylium Emerald Heights® is prized for its lush, emerald green foliage and a neat, compact growth habit. Its leaves are small, glossy, and have a slightly wavy margin, contributing to the plant’s overall texture.

Native: This cultivar is part of the Distylium genus, native to East Asia, particularly China and Japan.

Plant Type and Habit: It is an evergreen shrub with a dense, upright, and slightly spreading habit. This growth form makes it suitable for a wide range of landscape uses.

Size: This cultivar typically grows to about 5 feet in height (150 cm) and 5-6 feet in width (150-180 cm), making it ideal for many garden settings.

Flowers: It produces small, reddish-maroon flowers in the winter and early spring. These flowers are often subtle but a nice contrast to the foliage.

Foliage: The evergreen foliage is its standout feature, with a deep emerald green color that provides year-round interest and a fresh look in the garden.

Uses: Ideal for use in foundation plantings, hedges, privacy screens, or as a standalone specimen. Its compact and neat growth makes it suitable for formal gardens.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9, showing good tolerance to a variety of environmental conditions.

Wildlife: While not a major wildlife attractor, its flowers may benefit pollinators in early spring.

Toxicity: There is no known toxicity to humans or pets, making it a safe choice for residential landscapes.

Deer and Rabbit: It exhibits some resistance to deer and rabbits, which can be beneficial in areas where these animals are prevalent.

Drought: Once established, it has a good level of drought tolerance, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.

Invasiveness: This cultivar is not known to be invasive and tends to grow within its designated area without spreading aggressively.

Benefits: Its evergreen nature provides year-round interest, and its compact form can add a unique aesthetic to various garden styles. It is also low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established.

Evergreen Distylium Growing Tips

Light: Evergreen Distylium thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages denser foliage and more abundant flowering.

Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. It can adapt to a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils. Tolerates both acidic and alkaline pH levels.

Water: Regular watering is needed to establish plants. Once established, Distylium is quite drought-tolerant. However, consistent moisture promotes optimal growth and health.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering.

Pruning: Pruning is not typically necessary but can be done to maintain shape or size. Prune after flowering.

Propagation: Propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer.

Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-resistant. Keep an eye out for common issues like leaf spot or root rot, especially in poorly drained soils. Good cultural practices usually prevent most diseases.