East Asian Eurya

Eurya japonica (YOO-ree-uh juh-PON-ih-kuh)

Family: Pentaphylacacaeae Non-native Shrub (3-15 ft)

Eurya is a large, evergreen, perennial shrub or small tree in the pentaphylax family, native to the hillsides of China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. At maturity, it can reach a height of 12 feet and a width of 9 feet. The branches have a unique horizontal to slightly upright structure. The glossy, lance-shaped, 3 inch leaves have serrated margins and a thick, leathery quality. Tiny pendulous, bell-shaped, cream colored flowers bloom in early to mid spring and hang downward below the branches on short stems. The species name means from Japan and refers to a portion of this plant's native range. Eurya does best in a compost of loam and peat, neutral or slightly acidic, alhough it will grow in well-draining soils and clay. It is typically propagated by cuttings planted in a sandy soil. Growing the plant in full sun will encourage blossoms, but the plant will tolerate partial shade. However, it does not tolerate cold, drying winds during winter. Eurya is most often used as an ornamental for covering a low wall or as a decoration and can be pruned to a desired shape. In the Shinto religion, the tree is considered sacred, and its leaves are used as sacrificial offerings. Some consider the flowers of Eurya to be malodorous and should not be cut and brought indoors; if you find this to be the case, 'Moutiers' is a more fragrant cultivar. Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No known pest or disease issues. However, this evergreen plant is very frost-tender and requires protection from cold, drying winds.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 51 attributes.