Overview
Dirca palustris is a plant with a shrub, 1.5-3 m tall habit in the genus Dirca, part of the Thymelaeaceae family, with deciduous, light green foliage. Dirca palustris grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include shade gardens and woodland borders.
About
Dirca palustris, commonly known as eastern leatherwood, is a deciduous shrub growing between 1.5 and 3 metres tall. It features light green foliage and thrives in partial shade, particularly in north, east, or west-facing aspects with sheltered exposure. This cultivar prefers moist, neutral loam soil that is fertile and well-drained. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suitable for shade gardens and woodland borders. Propagation is typically done by seed sown in a cold frame during autumn, with the plant showing interest in both spring and summer seasons.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Dirca
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist
- Aspect
- North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Dirca palustris size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Shrub, 1.5-3 m tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, light green
- Suggested uses
- Shade gardens, woodland borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dirca palustris
- Propagation
- Seed in cold frame in fall
- Pest resistance
- Generally trouble-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally trouble-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Dirca palustris?
Dirca palustris prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Dirca palustris need?
Dirca palustris grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
Is Dirca palustris hardy in the UK?
Dirca palustris has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Dirca palustris?
Seed in cold frame in fall.