Disporum sessile ‘Aureovariegatum’

Japanese Fairy Bells Colchicaceae

A golden-leaved woodland classic, and proof that the fairy-bell family can be every bit as ornamental for its foliage as its flowers. Elegant, slightly arching stems carry broad, pointed leaves boldly splashed and edged with creamy yellow, the variegation becoming particularly luminous in cool, filtered light. In spring, pendent, greenish-white bells hang beneath the foliage, delicately scented with the sweet fragrance of Lily-of-the-Valley, followed by small berries which mature to dark blue-black.

An old and well-established cultivated form of the Japanese Disporum sessile, ‘Aureovariegatum’ has been grown for many years and remains one of the most attractive variegated forms. The species is native to Japan, Korea and parts of China, where it inhabits woodland and forest margins. In the garden it appreciates much the same conditions: humus-rich, moisture-retentive soil and partial shade, where the golden foliage illuminates the woodland floor without becoming garish.

A beautifully mannered plant, combining variegated foliage, scented spring flowers and handsome berries in one rather civilised package. The flowers may be small, but their Lily-of-the-Valley perfume is anything but.

Height: 40–60 cm
Spread: 40–60 cm
Flowering: April–May
Hardiness: H5, approximately –15 to –10°C
Position: Partial shade to shade
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained