About

Helwingia japonica, Japanese helwingia, is a small, deciduous shrub to about 1.5 m producing small, green flowers in late spring directly from the centre of the leaf midribs. Male and female flowers are on separate plants; fertilised females produce pea-sized, black berries contrasting well with the yellow autumn foliage. A charming botanical curiosity 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

SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toChina, Japan

Care notes

CultivationGrow in light, humus-rich soil in light shade
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed or by softwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free