Here are the Best Distylium Varieties that you can use in the garden. These are also great for fences and borders!
In recent years, winter hazel has become increasingly popular in landscaping and garden design, thanks to its attractive foliage, easy care, and versatility. Here are the Best Distylium Varieties you must try growing!
Look at the Best Black Grasses for Landscaping here
Best Distylium Varieties
1. Distylium Myricoides ‘Blue Cascade’
USDA Zones: 6-9
Blue Cascade is a low-growing shrub that reaches a height of 2-3 feet and a spread of 4-5 feet. It has blue-green foliage that takes on a purplish hue in the winter, making it a great choice for adding year-round interest to the garden.
2. Distylium Racemosum
USDA Zones: 7-10
It is a larger shrub or small tree, growing up to 16-18 feet tall and 8-10 feet wide. It has glossy green leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in winter or early spring.
3. Distylium x ‘Vintage Jade’
USDA Zones: 6b – 9
It has dark green, glossy leaves and a compact, upright growth habit, reaching a height of 3-4 feet and a spread of 4-6 feet. ‘Vintage Jade’ is particularly resistant to pests and diseases and has proven to be a low-maintenance and versatile choice for landscaping.
4. Distylium Myricoides ‘Cinnamon Girl’
USDA Zones: 7-9
‘Cinnamon Girl’ is a dense, mounding shrub with an average height and spread of 4-5 feet. It has dark green foliage that takes on a reddish-brown hue in the winter, giving it a unique appearance.
5. Distylium Myricoides ‘Coppertone’
USDA Zones: 7-10
‘Coppertone’ is a compact, slow-growing shrub that reaches a height of 3-4 feet and a spread of 4-5 feet. It has bronze-colored new growth that matures to dark green, creating an interesting contrast of colors.
6. Distylium Myricoides ‘Spring Frost’
USDA Zones: 6b-9b
‘Spring Frost’ is a low-growing shrub that reaches a height of 2-3 feet and a spread of 4-5 feet. It has variegated foliage with creamy-white margins that stand out against the dark green leaves.
7. Distylium ‘Emerald Heights’
USDA Zones: 6b-9
‘Emerald Heights’ is popular for its striking dark green foliage and dense growth habit. This evergreen shrub is a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers looking for a low-maintenance plant that can provide year-round interest.
8. Distylium ‘Linebacker’
USDA Zones: 7-9
It is an excellent choice for gardeners and landscapers looking for a low-maintenance plant that can provide year-round interest and add structure to a garden or landscape.
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Distylium Care
Sunlight
Distylium plants prefer partial to full shade, meaning they should receive no more than 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If planted in an area with more than 6 hours of direct sunlight, the leaves may become scorched or yellowed.
Soil
These plants are quite adaptable but prefer acidic soils with good drainage and a pH of 6.0 – 6.5. You can use any type of growing medium, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, but Distyliums do best in moist, well-draining soils.
Watering
Water your plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry to the touch. It is important not to overwater Distylium plants as they are susceptible to root rot. During the summer months, you may need to water your Distylium plant more often than during the winter months.
Pruning
Distylium doesn’t need to be pruned on a regular basis, but it can benefit from occasional shaping to keep its appearance neat. Do it in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Avoid pruning in the fall, as this can stimulate new growth that is susceptible to winter damage.
Pest and Disease Control
Distylium is resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and root rot if the soil around the plant is too wet.
If you notice signs of a pest infestation, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or oil.
Learn about the Most Common Garden Pests here
Landscaping Uses for Distylium
- Hedges and Borders: The plant’s dense growth habit and attractive foliage make it an excellent choice for use as a low hedge or border.
- Foundation Planting: Distylium’s attractive form and evergreen foliage make it an ideal choice for use as a foundation planting. It can be used to frame entryways or windows or to add structure to a garden or landscape.
- Specimen Planting: Their attractive form and year-round color make them an ideal choice for use as a specimen plant in a mixed border.
