Disporum viridescens

Asian Fairy Bells Colchicaceae

A handsome and somewhat underappreciated Fairy Bell, Disporum viridescens is closely allied to D. smilacinum, but is the larger, more robust and distinctly more strongly branched species. Its upright, generally round (terete) stems carry several leaves below the branching—typically three to seven—whereas D. smilacinum is usually smaller and has only one or two leaves beneath its first branch. The leaves of D. viridescens are generally broader and less sharply pointed, while its pendent flowers are characteristically greenish-white, giving the plant an attractively cool, understated appearance. The flowers are borne in small clusters beneath the foliage in late spring, followed by purplish-black berries. 

This is an excellent distinction in cultivation: if your plant is tall, substantial and generously branched, with several leaves below each fork and greenish-white bells, viridescens is the better bet. Smilacinum, by comparison, is the more delicate and sparsely branched plant, normally carrying white flowers. Modern micromorphological work confirms that the two are sufficiently distinct to be treated as separate species, despite their close relationship. 

A lovely plant for a cool, humus-rich woodland setting, where its restrained flowers reward getting close rather than demanding attention from across the garden.

Height: 50–70cm
Spread: 30–50cm
Flowering: May–June
Hardiness: H6, approximately −15 to −20°C
Aspect: Partial shade
Soil: Moist, humus-rich and well drained

Key distinction: D. viridescens = more robust, more branched, 3–7 leaves below branching, greenish-white flowers; D. smilacinum = smaller, sparsely branched, 1–2 leaves below branching, usually white flowers