Overview
Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' is a perennial in the genus Disporum, part of the Colchicaceae family. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall. Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include shade garden, woodland garden and borders. It is native to Japan.
About
Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' is a perennial in the Colchicaceae valued for its variegated foliage and compact habit. It reaches about 0.6 m and favours shady, sheltered positions. Flowering occurs from May to July. It performs best in moist but well-drained sandy, loamy or clay soils.
About the genus
Disporum is a genus of about 20 species of perennial flowering plants, found in Asia from northern India to Japan, south to Indonesia and north into the Russian Far East.
Wikipedia contributors, "Disporum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Disporum
In the garden
Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' is a shade-loving perennial native to Japan, belonging to the Colchicaceae family. This cultivar is selected for variegated leaves and forms a low, leafy presence roughly 0.6 m high, with its flowering period running from May to July. Position the plant in partial shade or full shade where soil remains moist but drains freely; it tolerates sandy, loamy and clay soils provided they are not waterlogged. In UK terms its H7 rating means it is fully hardy and will withstand typical winter conditions; it also falls within USDA zones 4–8. Give it a sheltered spot away from hot, direct afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch and ensure soil remains evenly moist through the growing season. In the garden it suits shade and woodland beds and the lower strata of mixed borders, where its variegation lifts darker foliage. Use it to edge shaded paths or tuck beneath taller shrubs to provide a light, variegated foil during late spring and early summer. With a modest 0.6 m stature and a clear May–July flowering window, it fills a specific niche in cool, shaded plantings.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Disporum
- Sunlight
- Partial Shade, Shade
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 0.6 m
- Suggested uses
- Shade garden, Woodland garden, Borders
- Native to
- Japan
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Disporum sessile 'Variegatum'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Pruning
- Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring; trim to maintain shape if necessary.
- Propagation
- Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation is possible but less common.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Disporum sessile 'Variegatum'?
Prefers moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Disporum sessile 'Variegatum'?
Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' prefers partial shade and shade.
What soil does Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' need?
Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Disporum sessile 'Variegatum'?
Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring; trim to maintain shape if necessary.
How big does Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' grow?
Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' reaches a height of 0.6 m.
Is Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' hardy in the UK?
Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Disporum sessile 'Variegatum'?
Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation is possible but less common.
