Disporum cantoniense (Chinese Fairy Bells)
Disporum cantoniense (Chinese Fairy Bells) is a clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial with arching, bamboo-like stems clothed with lance-shaped, shiny, bright green leaves, 5 in. long (12 cm). In late spring and early summer, bell-shaped flowers in shades of creamy-white or reddish-purple dangle at the stem ends. They are followed by showy dark-red berries in the fall. A handsome shade-loving woodland species.
Disporum cantoniense (Chinese Fairy Bells) is a clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial with arching, bamboo-like stems clothed with lance-shaped, shiny, bright green leaves, 5 in. long (12 cm). In late spring and early summer, bell-shaped flowers in shades of creamy-white or reddish-purple dangle at the stem ends. They are followed by showy dark-red berries in the fall. A handsome shade-loving woodland species.
- Grows up to 3-5 ft. tall (90-150 cm) and 18-24 in. wide (45-60 cm). Plants spread by rhizomes to form colonies, but they are not considered to be invasive.
- Performs best in part shade in humus-rich, consistently moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates full shade. Provide a sheltered site and protect it with dry winter mulch.
- Virtually disease free. Keep an eye out for slugs and vine weevils.
- Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn. Divide in spring before or as growth begins.
- Native to China, the Himalayas, E. Indies.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 5 – 10 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Perennials |
| Plant Family | Disporum – Fairy Bells |
| Exposure | Partial Sun, Shade |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Late)Summer (Early) |
| Height | 3' – 5' (90cm – 150cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spacing | 18″ – 24″ (45cm – 60cm) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Loam |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Fruit & Berries |
| Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage |