Disporum longistylum ‘Aureovariegata’

Chinese Fairy Bells Colchicaceae

 A rather splendid member of the fairy-bell family, and one that has clearly decided that plain green foliage is simply too conventional. Arching, bamboo-like stems carry elegant, lance-shaped leaves liberally marked with irregular golden-yellow variegation, giving the plant a luminous quality in the woodland garden without descending into horticultural garishness.

In late spring and early summer, pendent, creamy-white to greenish flowers hang beneath the foliage like tiny bells, followed by attractive berries later in the season. The stems gradually form a handsome, spreading clump, making this an excellent plant for the dappled shade of a woodland border, particularly where the soil remains humus-rich and reasonably moist. A slowish starter, but considerably more interesting once established.

Native forms of Disporum longistylum occur in the montane forests of China, with the species also extending into adjacent parts of East Asia. ‘Aureovariegata’ is a cultivated variegated form rather than a naturally occurring botanical taxon.

Height: 60–90 cm
Spread: 60–90 cm
Flowering: May–June
Hardiness: H5, approximately –15 to –10°C
Position: Partial to full shade
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil