Japanese Fairy Bells
(Disporum smilacinum)
Japanese Fairy Bells (Disporum smilacinum)
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Alpsdake
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Photo by: Alpsdake | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Alpsdake | Publisher: Wikipedia Commons































Estimated Native Range
Summary
Disporum smilacinum, commonly known as Japanese Fairy Bells, is a deciduous perennial herb native to the understory of temperate forests in East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and parts of China. It typically grows to a height and width of 0.7-1 feet (0.2-0.3 meters), forming clumps of arching stems. The plant features lance-shaped leaves and nodding, bell-shaped flowers that are white to cream in color, blooming in late spring to early summer. The flowers are subtly showy and can add a delicate charm to shaded garden areas.
Japanese Fairy Bells are valued for their graceful appearance and are often used in woodland gardens, shade gardens, and as ground cover under larger shrubs or trees. They are relatively low-maintenance, preferring consistently moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. While they thrive in part shade to full shade, they can tolerate some morning sun. They are not commonly affected by serious pests or diseases, but slugs and snails can sometimes be problematic. This plant is not known for aggressive roots or invasiveness, making it a safe choice for most garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0
Japanese Fairy Bells are valued for their graceful appearance and are often used in woodland gardens, shade gardens, and as ground cover under larger shrubs or trees. They are relatively low-maintenance, preferring consistently moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. While they thrive in part shade to full shade, they can tolerate some morning sun. They are not commonly affected by serious pests or diseases, but slugs and snails can sometimes be problematic. This plant is not known for aggressive roots or invasiveness, making it a safe choice for most garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 0.7-1 feet
- Width: 0.7-1 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Groundcover, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Understory of temperate forests in East Asia
Other Names
Common Names: Fairy Bell, 애기나리
Scientific Names: , Disporum smilacinum, Disporum smilacinum var. ramosum, Disporum smilacinum var. album, Disporum smilacinum var. rotundatum, Disporum smilacinum var. variegatum,
GBIF Accepted Name: Disporum smilacinum A.Gray