Distylium

Hamamelidaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · introduced

Last updated March 10, 2026

Data Coverage 2 of 6 dimensions

Site Data

Threats

Cultivars

Phenology

GDD Thresholds

Puget Sound

As of March 31, 2026, soil temperature at Kent / Auburn is 47.7°F. Distylium, hardy to Zone Zones 6b–9b, is in early-season conditions in Zone 8b.

Distylium (Hamamelidaceae) is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub from East Asia, reaching 2 to 10 feet tall and 3 to 8 feet wide depending on cultivar. Flowers lack true petals, instead displaying bright calyx and stamens in leaf axils from January through April. The genus is related to witch hazel.

Distylium grows in sun to part shade on moist to wet or well-drained soils (pH 6.0 to 8.0), hardy in Zones 6b to 9b. It is notably pest-resistant but susceptible to Phytophthora root rot. Maintenance is low. The cultivar 'Vintage Jade' is the primary selection in the trade.

Quick Facts

Height

2-10 ft

Spread

3-8 ft

Growth Rate

Slow

Light

Sun to Part Shade

Soil

Moist, Moist To Wet, Well Drained

Hardiness

Zone Zones 6b–9b

Bloom Time

spring, winter

Origin

E and SE Asia, hybrid origin

Cultivars (1)

'Vintage Jade'