Rock Star Plant - Cinnamon Girl® Distylium

Are you a warm climate gardener looking for the perfect addition to any space? Look no further than Cinnamon Girl® Distylium!

This Rock Star is hardy from Zones 7-9 and an excellent alternative to boxwood and other evergreen varieties that can be threatened by insects and diseases in the southern part of the country. As one of the most cold tolerant varieties in the species, Cinnamon Girl® is sure to solve you next gardening challenge.

For more information about all of our Rock Star Plants, check out our Complete Guide to Rock Star Plants. If you’re a gardener in Zones 2-5, take a look at our Rock Star Plants for Cold Climates guide, and for warmer climate gardeners in Zones 6-9, check out our Rock Star Plants for Warm Climates.

Stunning Color

Cinnamon Girl® has plum-purple new growth that turns to blue green as the leaves mature. This beautiful color adds interest to what could otherwise be a monotone landscape.

Mass Planting Perfection

One of the many benefits of planting Cinnamon Girl® is its ability to fill large spaces throughout the landscape. The rounded to spreading habit is great for creating refined mass plantings that don’t grow to look out of control. Head to our blog on mass planting to learn more.

Deer Resistant

It can be frustrating to plant something in your garden just to have a furry friend snack on it. This Rock Star is deer-resistant, meaning deer and other critters are less likely to nibble on Cinnamon Girl® than other plants. At our blog on deer resistant plants, you can learn more about gardening with this type of plant.

Drought Tolerant

While Cinnamon Girl® does well in moist soil, it also thrives in drought like conditions. This makes Cinnamon Girl a low maintenance addition to your landscape while also adding that bright and vibrant color. Learn more from our blog on drought-tolerant plants.

CARE TIPS FOR CINNAMON GIRL® DISTYLIUM

Planting: This Rock Star thrives when planted in full sun or in part shade. To ensure you are planting your Cinnamon Girl® correctly, check out our planting blog.

Watering: Cinnamon Girl® prefers soil that is kept evenly moist. Be sure to watch our video on watering for the best tips and tricks to keep Cinnamon Girl® hydrated all season long.

Fertilizing: Cinnamon Girl® won’t need much fertilizer to kickstart its growth but if you want to apply, be sure to use a granular, well balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Apply once in spring when you see green leafy new growth and be sure to follow the directions on the package. To learn more, watch our video on how to fertilize in spring.

Pruning: Cinnamon Girl® can be pruned in the late winter after it has flowered.

Plant Details

Height: 2-3’

Width: 3-4’

Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade

Hardiness Zone: 7-9

Heat Zone: 9

Shape: Upright, rounded

Flower Color: Red

Foliage: Blue


In addition to ordering Cinnamon Girl® Distylium online during our shipping season, you can also use our Find a Retailer tool to locate First Editions® this shrub at garden centers near you. Remember to tag us on social @firsteditionsshrubstrees if you plant one of these shrubs and sign up for our newsletter for monthly inspiration, tips, and more delivered right to your inbox.