Daphniphyllum macropodum var. humile, commonly known as Japanese False Daphne, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub native to the understory of cool temperate forests and shaded slopes in East Asia, particularly Japan. It typically reaches a height and width of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters). The plant features large, leathery, blue-green leaves that provide year-round interest. Its flowers are small and green, often overlooked due to their inconspicuous nature, blooming in late spring. Despite the flowers’ subtlety, they are followed by attractive blue-black berries that can add visual interest in the landscape.

Japanese False Daphne is valued for its lush foliage and its ability to thrive in shaded conditions, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as an understory plant in larger landscapes. It requires part shade to maintain its best appearance, and it prefers medium or fast-draining loam or clay soils that are kept consistently moist. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to leaf spot diseases and may require protection from harsh winds.CC BY-SA 4.0