Distylium Vintage Jade #3-Deer Resistant

Are you tired of fighting "shot-hole" disease, or watching your foundation shrubs turn yellow and drop leaves every time it rains too much?

The Distylium ‘Vintage Jade' was the very first Distylium variety to hit the market, and it completely changed the game. It has thick, lustrous, dark green leaves that look tropical and expensive. But don’t let the pretty face fool you -- this is arguably the toughest shrub we sell. It stays green, it stays healthy, and it asks for absolutely nothing in return.

‘Vintage Jade’ is practically engineered for the Piedmont. You know how our soil can be rock-hard clay one week and a muddy soup the next? This plant handles both extremes without blinking. It is incredibly heat-tolerant (perfect for those scorching spots near pavement) and it actually tolerates "wet feet," which is where most evergreens fail in our heavy clay.

Why We Recommend It:

• The Disease Solution: This is the #1 reason we recommend it: Disease Resistance. Insects and diseases that plague Boxwoods, Hollies, and Laurels simply do not touch Distylium. If you want a green foundation plant that you never have to spray, this is it.

• Weed-Smothering Shape: ‘Vintage Jade’ grows in a layering habit. It spreads out wider than it gets tall. This makes it an incredible groundcover shrub for large areas or banks. It becomes a thick mat of green that shades out weeds, saving you money on mulch.

• A Winter Surprise: Just when you think winter is totally drab (usually around February), this plant pushes out tiny, maroon-red flowers. They aren't huge, but up close, they are a cool little burst of color when the rest of the garden is asleep.

Best Used For:

• Replacing sick Otto Luyken Laurels.

• Covering large banks or slopes (great for erosion).

• Commercial landscapes (because it’s indestructible).

• Foundation plantings under low windows.

The Specs:

• Growth Rate: Fast (covers ground quickly).

• Mature Size: Mounding; 3–4 ft tall x 5 ft wide.

• Sun/Soil: Full Sun to Part Shade. Thrives in almost any soil, including heavy clay and wet areas.

Ready to Learn More? Check out the full technical details on the NC State Extension Plant Toolbox, or come in to Mitchell’s Nursery.