Contents
Description
Distylium is a genus of evergreen shrubs that belongs to the Hamamelidaceae family. This versatile plant is native to Japan and China and is widely used for landscaping purposes due to its attractive foliage and flowers. It is an easy-to-care-for plant that can thrive in different soil types and sunlight conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Hamamelidaceae |
| Genus | Distylium |
Appearance
Distylium has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and slightly serrated. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide, but there are also dwarf varieties that only reach 3-4 feet in height. It produces small, red flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring, and the blooms are followed by small, hard fruits that resemble acorns.
Care Guide
Distylium is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for your Distylium:
Water: Distylium prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate mild drought. Water your plant regularly, especially during the hot and dry months.
Fertilization: Fertilize your Distylium once a year in early spring using a slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: Distylium can grow in different types of soil, but it prefers well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, add some compost or sand to improve its drainage.
Sunlight: Distylium can grow in full sun or partial shade, but it prefers partial shade in hot and dry climates.
Hardiness Zones: Distylium is hardy in zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Distylium is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid over-watering your plant.
Habitat
Distylium is native to Japan and China and can be found growing in forests and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall can Distylium grow?
A: Distylium can grow up to 15 feet tall, but there are also dwarf varieties that only reach 3-4 feet in height.
Q: Is Distylium hard to care for?
A: No, Distylium is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance.
Q: Can Distylium grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Distylium can grow in full sun or partial shade, but it prefers partial shade in hot and dry climates.
Q: Does Distylium produce fruit?
A: Yes, Distylium produces small, hard fruits that resemble acorns after blooming.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Distylium:
- Hamamelis
- Corylopsis
- Fothergilla
- Loropetalum
References
- “Distylium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a484.
- “Distylium.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/distylium-plant-profile-5094854.
- “Distylium.” Southern Living, www.southernliving.com/garden/plants/distylium-plant.
