Also known as Japanese Ardisia · Japanese Cleyera · Maleberry
Marlberry (Ardisia japonica) is a low-growing evergreen shrub native to East Asia, known for its glossy leaves and clusters of small white to pink flowers followed by red
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial shade to full shade
25% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight; protect from intense direct sun.
Keep soil consistently moist
50% intensity
Avoid waterlogging; allow slight drying in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average room temperature
50% intensity
Prefers 18-24°C (65-75°F); can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed lightly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Marlberry regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during warmer months and when actively growing. Reduce watering in cooler winter months, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Prune Marlberry lightly in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pinching back young shoots can encourage bushier growth.
Heavy pruning is generally not necessary for this plant.
Propagate Marlberry from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep moist and warm until roots develop, which can take several weeks.
Division of established clumps is also possible.
Repot Marlberry every 2-3 years in spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid excessive moisture retention.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Marlberry (Ardisia japonica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Ardisia |
| Species | Ardisia japonica |
Similar in genus Ardisia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
