Marlberry (Ardisia japonica, Bijdr. Fl. Ned. Ind.: 690 (1826))

Family: Primulaceae

Author: (Thunb.) Blume

Bibliography: Bijdr. Fl. Ned. Ind.: 690 (1826)

Year: 1826

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ardisia

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. & S. China to Temp. E. Asia

Description

Marlberry, scientifically known as Ardisia japonica, is a charming evergreen shrub that belongs to the Primulaceae family. This plant, cherished for its ornamental qualities, typically reaches a height of up to one foot, making it an excellent choice for ground cover in gardens or as a decorative houseplant.

Originating from the regions of Central and Southern China to temperate Eastern Asia, Marlberry has adapted well to a variety of climates, thriving in shaded to partially shaded areas. It is particularly noted for its broad, glossy, dark green leaves, which provide a lush, verdant backdrop year-round. During the spring and early summer months, Marlberry produces small, delicate clusters of pink to white flowers, which eventually give way to petite, dark purple to black berries in autumn. These berries, while attractive, are primarily ornamental.

The plant has a historical footprint, with its formal documentation dating back to the early 19th century as noted in “Bijdragen tot de flora van Nederlandsch Indië” in 1826. The scientific classification was credited to the renowned botanist Carl Peter Thunberg, although the name was later revised by Carl Ludwig Blume, contributing further to its botanical literature.

Marlberry is appreciated not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for its low maintenance requirements. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Its resilience and adaptability make it a popular choice among gardeners seeking a durable and attractive plant to enhance their landscape.

Overall, Ardisia japonica is an exemplary plant that continues to capture the interest of plant enthusiasts and horticulturists alike, providing both beauty and versatility to various planting environments.

Common Names

Eng: marlberry
Deu: mergelbeere
En: Marlberry
Zh: Zi jin niu, 紫金牛
Et: Jaapani ardiisia
De: Mergelbeere
Ko: 자금우
Zh-tw: 紫金牛

Synonyms

• Bladhia japonica (Thunb.)
• Tinus japonica ((Thunb.) Kuntze)

Distribution

• China North-Central (native)
• China South-Central (native)
• China Southeast (native)
• Japan (native)
• Korea (native)
• Taiwan (native)
• Assam (introduced)
• Bangladesh (introduced)
• Louisiana (introduced)
• Texas (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Nov 13, 2022 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5558066)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:587115-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ardisia japonica (Thunb.) Blume)

Specifications

Growth