The Story
Plant Bio
Disporum pullum 'Variegatum' is a perennial woodland plant with arching stems, variegated lance-shaped leaves, and delicate, bell-shaped, greenish-white flowers tipped with purple that appear in spring.
This cultivar is notable for its striking variegated foliage, which adds ornamental value even when not in flower, making it a desirable choice for shaded garden borders.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist
Humidity
Average to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
East Asia
Toxicity
All parts may cause stomach upset if ingested.
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into moist, well-drained soil in spring
- Keep soil consistently moist during active growth
- Place in partial to full shade for best foliage variegation
- Mulch around roots to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
- Watch for new growth in early spring and remove any dead foliage
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains moist and provide shade for optimal variegation.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and protect roots
- Prune back after flowering to maintain shape
Don't
- Avoid full sun exposure which can scorch leaves ❌
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Avoid heavy fertilization that can promote leggy growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Variegatum Variegated Disporum questions
What zones can Variegatum Variegated Disporum grow in?
Variegatum Variegated Disporum is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Variegatum Variegated Disporum deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Variegatum Variegated Disporum, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Variegatum Variegated Disporum bloom?
Variegatum Variegated Disporum typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Variegatum Variegated Disporum need full sun?
Variegatum Variegated Disporum does best in part shade.
More Disporum to compare
Disporum Cantoniense Fairy Bells
Disporum cantoniense
Aureovariegata Variegated Disporum
Disporum smilacinum 'Aureovariegata'
Kinga Variegated Japanese Fairy Bells
Disporum sessile 'Kinga'
Korean Fairy Bells
Disporum flavens
Japanese Fairy Bells
Disporum sessile 'Tightwad'
Kinsei Variegated Japanese Fairy Bells
Disporum sessile 'Kinsei'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Variegatum Variegated Disporum with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.