Distylium Linebacker™ (Evergreen Distylium)

Linebacker™ Distylium is an ornamental evergreen shrub that is gaining attention in the landscaping world for its robust growth and attractive features.

Distylium Linebacker™: An In-depth Look

Linebacker™ is known for its upright, dense, and columnar growth habit. It showcases lush, dark green foliage and a sturdy structure, making it an excellent choice for adding vertical interest in gardens and landscapes.

Native: The Distylium genus, to which Linebacker™ belongs, is native to East Asia, particularly in China and Japan. Linebacker™ is a cultivated variety developed for specific landscape uses.

Plant Type and Habit: It is an evergreen shrub with a strong, upright, and compact growth habit. This form makes it suitable for creating hedges, screens, and as a focal point in garden designs.

Size: Linebacker™ typically grows to about 8-10 feet in height (2.4 to 3 meters) and 6-8 feet in width (1.8 to 2.4 meters), making it one of the larger Distylium cultivars.

Flowers: It produces small, reddish-maroon flowers during the winter to early spring. The flowers are not overly showy but add a nice contrast against the dark green foliage.

Foliage: Emerging reddish, the foliage matures to a deep, glossy green, which remains vibrant throughout the year, providing continuous visual interest.

Uses: Its upright and dense form makes it ideal for use as a privacy screen, hedge, or as a stand-alone specimen in landscape designs. It’s also suitable for large container plantings.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 7-9, showing good tolerance to a variety of environmental conditions.

Wildlife: While not a major attractor of wildlife, its flowers may provide some benefit to 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: Apart from its ornamental value, Linebacker™ Distylium is low maintenance and provides a robust, evergreen presence in the garden throughout the year.

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.