Also known as Fairy Bells · 201 saves
Disporum
Disporum, the genus most gardeners know as fairy bells. We track 7 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 7 most-saved Disporum varieties
Species of Disporum
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Disporum in Sow
Save the Disporum you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Disporum
Whats common across all Disporum varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 7 most-grown of them.
The Disporum year
- DivideMarch, September and October100% of varieties
Divide clumps every 3-5 years in early fall if vigor declines.
- Spring CleanupFebruary71% of varieties
Cut back old stems and foliage before new shoots emerge.
- MulchMarch and October57% of varieties
Apply organic mulch to help retain soil moisture.
- PlantMarch, April, September and October57% of varieties
Plant or transplant in early spring or early fall.
- FertilizeMarch57% of varieties
Top-dress with compost or leaf mold in early spring.
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Prune back after flowering to maintain shape
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Provide partial to full shade in hot climates
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot ❌
- Do not expose to direct harsh sunlight in peak summer
- Avoid disturbing roots during dormant period
- Refrain from heavy pruning during late fall
What goes wrong with Disporum
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Slugs | Irregular holes in leaves | Apply iron phosphate bait or handpick at night |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning roots | Ensure well-draining soil and reduce watering |
Making more Disporum
Division
- Divide clumps in early spring or fall.
- Plant divisions at same depth as parent.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Seed
- Collect seeds after seed capsules mature
- Sow in moist, well-drained seed-starting mix
- Keep soil consistently moist and in shade
- Germination occurs in 4–8 weeks
- Transplant seedlings when large enough
Disporum questions
How many types of Disporum are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 7 distinct Disporum varieties. The most popular — ranked by 201 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Disporum grow in?
Across its varieties, Disporum covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Disporum bloom?
Most Disporum varieties bloom in late spring, early spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Disporum should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.