Contents
Description
Distylium Racemosum is a small, evergreen shrub that is native to Japan. It is a member of the witchhazel family and is also commonly known as the Isu tree. This plant is highly prized for its beautiful foliage, which is a lustrous green color and has a glossy texture. It produces small, red flowers in the winter, which are followed by small fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Aquifoliales |
| Family | Hamamelidaceae |
| Genus | Distylium |
Appearance
Distylium Racemosum is a small, compact shrub that typically grows to about 6-8 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are evergreen and are a lustrous green color with a glossy texture. The leaves are also oval-shaped and have a smooth edge. In the winter, Distylium Racemosum produces small, red flowers that are followed by small fruits. Overall, this plant has a neat, tidy appearance and is an excellent addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Distylium Racemosum is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water your Distylium Racemosum regularly, especially during the first few months after planting. Once established, this plant is fairly drought-tolerant.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Distylium Racemosum in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as these can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
- Soil: Distylium Racemosum prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may not flower as well.
- Hardiness Zones: Distylium Racemosum is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Distylium Racemosum is relatively pest- and disease-resistant, but there are a few issues to watch out for:
- Scale insects: These small insects can attach themselves to the leaves and stems of Distylium Racemosum, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and premature leaf drop. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Distylium Racemosum is native to Japan and is typically found in woodland settings. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and humidity levels. This plant is also drought-tolerant and can survive in periods of low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall does Distylium Racemosum grow?
A: Distylium Racemosum typically grows to about 6-8 feet tall and wide.
Q: Is Distylium Racemosum drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, once established, Distylium Racemosum is fairly drought-tolerant.
Q: What kind of soil does Distylium Racemosum prefer?
A: Distylium Racemosum prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
Q: Does Distylium Racemosum have any pest or disease problems?
A: Distylium Racemosum is relatively pest- and disease-resistant, but can be susceptible to scale insects, root rot, and leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Distylium Crenatum
- Distylium Myricoides
- Distylium X
References
- “Distylium racemosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed November 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c600.
- “Distylium racemosum.” NC State Extension. Accessed November 10, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/distylium-racemosum/.
- “Distylium racemosum.” Plant Database. Accessed November 10, 2021. https://www.plantsgalore.com/plants/view/1746/Distylium-racemosum.
