Variegated Marlberry
Ardisia japonica 'Hinode'
Pickup currently unavailable at Aiken Nursery
Ardisia japonica 'Hinode' is a variegated form of the Japanese marlberry, each glossy, dark green leaf marked with a broad gold band down the center. Low and slowly spreading, this evergreen carpets shaded ground at eight to twelve inches, lit by the gold variegation and dotted in fall with bright red berries that hold into winter.
Native to the woodlands of Japan, China, and Korea, marlberry has long been grown in East Asian gardens and is, in its plain green form, one of the fifty fundamental herbs of traditional Chinese medicine, the whole plant used for coughs and chest complaints. 'Hinode' is grown for beauty rather than use, a refined, compact selection prized for the contrast of gold leaf and red fruit.
Plant the variegated marlberry as a slow evergreen groundcover or edger in shade to part shade, in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil, lovely along a shaded path, at the front of a woodland bed, or in a container. Even and steady moisture suits the foliage best, and the gold-banded leaves brighten a dim corner year round.
- Hardiness
- USDA Zones 7–9
- Sun
- Part Shade, Full Shade
- Soil
- Moist, Well-drained
- Mature size
- Height 8–12 Inches · Spread 12–24 Inches
- Growth rate
- Slow
- Seasonality
- Evergreen
white to pale pink star-shaped, July-August
References & research
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is shared for traditional and educational interest only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before any medicinal use.
- Large doses may harm the kidneys
- Traditional use only; not safe for self-treatment
From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.
Because most of our plants are grown from rooted cuttings — alongside seed, air layering, and grafting chosen for each variety — you receive a stronger, true-to-type plant that establishes quickly in your garden.
Raised on organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management — never harsh chemicals — your plant arrives healthy for your garden, your family, and the pollinators they feed.
Every purchase gives back. We donate to the Aiken Arboretum and support local wildlife conservation, so growing your garden helps protect the wider ecosystem too.
All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.
Your plant arrives carefully packed and ready to settle in. Unpack them promptly, give them a day or two to acclimate, then plant following the notes we include — that’s all it takes. Clear care guidance comes with every order, so success is the easy part.
What to expect upon delivery
All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.
Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?
Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?
We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?
At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.
Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.