Russell Stafford
Family
Myrsinaceae
Botanical Name
ARDISIA japonica
Plant Common Name
Japanese Ardisia, Marlberry
General Description
This low, suckering, evergreen shrub is native to East Asia. Its glossy, toothed, dark green leaves cluster in whorls at the stem tips. Pale pink summer flowers give rise to clusters of bright red berries in fall and winter. Several variegated cultivars have been selected.
Marlberry does best in shade and humus-rich acid soil. It makes an excellent ground cover, foundation plant, or potted specimen.
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
Light Pink
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Fruit Color
Red
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Dark Green
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Bark Color
Burgundy, Brown
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
Yes
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Glossy
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Bark Texture
Smooth
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Usage
Container, Edging, Foundation, Groundcover, Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
Sometimes
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Attracts
Birds
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Self-Sowing
Yes
