Distylum is a genus of evergreen shrubs in the Hamamelidaceae (witch hazel) family native to Asia. Hybrids in this genus are compact, coming in many sizes, and are very insect and disease resistant as well as tolerant of drought and heat. Some cultivars even grow well in wet soils. Their landscape potential is further aided by non-messy fruits and minimal maintenance needs. These shrubs grow best in full sun, tolerating part shade. Prune the tips in late May/June for bushier, more compact growth. They are slow growing and low maintenance. Plant in small groups or mass plant along a border or walkway, or on a sloped area. Their compact form works well in the small nooks of cottage or formal gardens and they can be planted in a row and pruned to form a privacy hedge or screen. Insect Pests, Diseases, and Other Problems: While they have no major pest or disease problems, they are susceptible to Phytophthora root rot, so consider resistant alternatives if this disease is present in your area.
Curated pairwise relationships between this plant and others in the library — who feeds
whom, who competes, who confuses the pests. Green reads as a good pairing, red as one to avoid.
No curated interactions recorded for this species yet.
Also noted by NC State
Related species the NC State Plant Toolbox flags for this plant — look-alikes to tell
apart, and plants that play a similar role in a planting. Ones we carry in the library are linked.
While most cultivars mature to a dark green, many have emergent growth ranging from reds to purples to bronze shades.
Flower color
Red/Burgundy
Flower form
Insignificant; Raceme
Flower size
< 1 inch
Flower detail
The flowers lack petals, consisting of a brightly colored calyx and stamens, and emerge from the leaf axils. Bloom from as early as January to as late as April.
Bloom time
Spring; Winter
Fruit color
Brown/Copper
Fruit type
Capsule
Fruit size
< 1 inch long, < 1 inch wide
Fruit detail
Brown, woody capsule with two valves and two seeds.
Stem color
Brown/Copper
Stem detail
Rigid, short branches.
Wildlife & Ecology
Native status
Non-native
Origin
E and SE Asia, hybrid origin
Play value
Screening
Food & Medicine
Harvest time
Fall
Fruit type
Capsule
Landscape Use
Landscape location
Slope/Bank; Small Space
Landscape theme
Cottage Garden; Drought Tolerant Garden; English Garden
Design feature
Accent; Border; Hedge; Mass Planting; Screen/Privacy; Small groups; Specimen