Distylium ‘Vintage Jade’ (Evergreen Distylium)

Distylium ‘Vintage Jade’ is an attractive and versatile evergreen shrub that has gained popularity in landscaping for its unique characteristics and low maintenance.

Distylium ‘Vintage Jade’: An In-depth Look

Distylium ‘Vintage Jade’ is distinguished by its dense, spreading, and low-growing habit. It features small, glossy, jade-green leaves that cover the plant year-round, providing a lush and full appearance.

Native: The Distylium genus is native to East Asia, specifically to regions in China and Japan. ‘Vintage Jade’ is a cultivated variety selected for its specific garden traits.

Plant Type and Habit: This cultivar is an evergreen shrub with a broad, mounding, and spreading habit. It is known for its dense foliage and low, wide growth.

Size: ‘Vintage Jade’ typically reaches about 3-4 feet in height (90-120 cm) and can spread 4-5 feet wide (120-150 cm), making it an excellent ground cover or low hedge plant.

Flowers: It produces small, inconspicuous reddish-maroon flowers in the winter to early spring, adding a subtle touch to the garden during these seasons.

Foliage: The foliage is the standout feature, with small, leathery, jade-green leaves that retain their color throughout the year.

Uses: Ideal for foundation plantings, mass plantings, low hedges, or as a ground cover in landscape designs. Its compact form also makes it suitable for container gardening.

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: The evergreen nature of ‘Vintage Jade’ provides year-round interest in the garden. Its low-growing, spreading habit makes it an excellent choice for covering large areas with minimal maintenance.

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.