Disporum sessile 'Variegatum' (Variegated Fairy Bells)

Botanical Information

FamilyColchicaceae
GenusDisporum
Speciessessile
Cultivar'Variegatum'
CategoryPerennials
OriginGenus name from the Greek word 'di' which means two and 'spora', meaning seed, in reference to the number of seeds contained in each ovary chamber. Species name in reference to leaf attachment, 'sessile' (with no petiole).

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone4 - 8
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone2a - 8a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH4 - H7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-34 - (-7)
Temperature (°F)-30 - 20
Height30 - 60 cm
Spread30 - 90 cm
GrowthMedium
Flowering PeriodApril

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionDisporum sessile 'Variegatum' is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial with white flowers and green and white variegated foliage.
ID CharacteristicStems are erect, bamboo-like.
LandscapeMakes a good spreading ground cover, foliage will add colour interest to shady locations.
CultivationGrow in part to full shade, in moist, well-drained, humusy, acidic soil. Tolerant of heavy shade. Best grown in some sun. Can spread aggressively, use soil barriers to prevent unwanted rhizomatous growth.
PestsSlugs and fungal leaf spot could be problematic.
Notable SpecimensRHS Garden Rosemoor, North Devon, England.
HabitatHorticultural origin.
Leaf DescriptionAlternate, ovate to lanceolate, 5 - 15 cm long, medium green with streaks of white.
Flower DescriptionBell-shaped, drooping, up to 5 cm in length, greenish-white, solitary at stem terminals or in clusters of 2 - 3.
Fruit DescriptionBerries are black, ripening in late summer.

Photographs