Emerald Heights has reddish-maroon flowers in late January through March add interest during the winter months. With its heat and drought tolerance, it is the perfect plant to use as low screening, a specimen or grouping in any size garden. The new growth emerges with a coppery color to the leaves. Reaches 5 feet tall and wide. Distylium is a good alternative for boxwood, cherry laurel, holly and juniper in foundation plantings or anywhere you want low maintenance evergreens. 

Growth Habit

Emerald Heights grows to be about 5' tall and wide.  Beautiful, dense, deep green foliage lasts all year. Hardiness zones of 6-9 and can be fairly drought tolerant once established.

Care

This very adaptable plant grows in full sun or part shade, tolerates drought, heat and wet soil. It also displays exceptional resistance to disease and insects. Water deeply and regularly during first growing season until established; reduce frequency once established. Provide winter protection in or below zone 6B normal low temperatures. Apply fertilizer before new growth begins in spring. May be pruned annually after flowering. 

 Toxicity

This plant is toxic to pets but luckily, deer do not like them!