Eurya japonica Moutiers

The Eurya japonica 'Moutiers' is a small bush with slow growth and a compact and dense habit, interesting for its thick evergreen foliage that is marginate with imperial green on a beautifully undulate edge. From the family of Theaceae, this little-known cousin of camellias presents a completely unusual and yet very elegant appearance.

The Japanese Eurya is found naturally in camellia forests in Japan, Taiwan, and Korea. Therefore, it is a shade bush that appreciates a shady location in cool and humid, slightly acidic soil with good drainage. However, it can tolerate a relatively sunny exposure as long as the atmosphere remains cool. Its hardiness is limited, however, as it can withstand temperatures as low as -8 to -10°C. The 'Moutiers' variety is particularly compact and bushy. This bush grows slowly to reach less than one meter in height. Moreover, it can be easily pruned if necessary and can be used for topiary. It is perfect for use in a container for terraces and balconies and in small gardens, so it can be stored during winter. Note: it tolerates sea spray well.

The interest of Eurya japonica 'Moutiers' lies in its persistent, elliptical leaves, densely arranged alternately on the branches. They have a shiny appearance and are very thick in texture: they almost resemble a "plastic plant"! The center of the leaf has an original and rare green-gray color in the plant world, accentuated by a fine imperial green band on the undulate edge. The white flowering in February-March is discreet to the eye but has a rather unpleasant smell. It gives rise to small purple-black fruits.

This unique plant lends itself well to use in a  contemporary garden or a Japanese-inspired garden, such as in the garden of Kerdalo in Brittany where it was planted alongside Pieris and the equally little-known  Pseudowintera colorata near a pagoda: an idea to replicate at home! It can also be associated with other plants from the heath family, such as the blue Rhododendron impeditum, or its camellia cousins.