About

Helwingia himalaica, Himalayan helwingia, is an evergreen or semi-evergreen, suckering shrub to 2 m with upright stems and lance-shaped leaves, purple-flushed when young. In late spring, small, white flowers emerge directly from the centre of the leaf blades � a remarkable botanical curiosity. Green fruits ripen to black. A bold and architectural shrub for a sheltered, moist, partly shaded border.

About the genus

Helwingia are medium-sized, evergreen or deciduous shrubs with glossy leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers emerging directly from the leaf midribs � a unique botanical curiosity. Male and female flowers are on separate plants, and fertilised female plants bear red or black berries. Grown in sheltered, moist, partly shaded positions.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitSuckering
FoliageEvergreen, Semi evergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesMixed borders, hedging, foundation planting.
Native toFar East

Care notes

CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich, neutral to acid soil in full or dappled shade
PruningSee pruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown in a cold frame in autumn. Separate root suckers in late winter. Take sem-ripe cuttings in late summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free