Loropetalum chinense
Loropetalum chinense
Chinese Fringe Flower
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: well-drained, humus-rich, slightly acid soil
- Flowering period: February to April
- Height: 1-1,5m
- Foliage: evergreen
- Hardiness: frost hardy (may need winter protection)
Loropetalum chinense, commonly known as Chinese fringe flower, is a low, small, evergreen shrub. In late winter and early spring, it produces slightly, fragrant spider-like flowers.
This attractive shrub originates from Japan and China and performs best when grown in full sun or partial shade, in humus-rich, slightly acid, well-drained soil.
Varieties
Loropetalum chinense ‘Fire Dance’
‘Fire Dance’ is well-loved for its evergreen purple-green foliage and pink, fragrant flowers which appear in early spring. This handsome shrub is perfect for planting in a large patio pot. Expect a height of 1m and a spread of 1m.
Loropetalum chinense ‘Black Pearl’
‘Black Pearl’ is slightly different with purple-flushed dark green foliage and deep rose spider-like flowers. A compact shrub to 1,5m tall.
Pruning
When and how to prune Loropetalum (Chinese fringe flower). This shrub doesn’t need a lot of pruning. If necessary, give Loropetalum chinense a light trim after flowering to retain its natural shape. Remove any dead or damaged branches.
Overwinter
Loropetalum chinense is frost hardy but may need winter protection. It is best planted in a position where it is sheltered from cold winds.
During severe frosts protect the leaves and the flowers with layers of garden fleece and cover the base of the plant with a thick layer of dry mulch.
Plant combination
What can you plant with Loropetalum chinense. This shrub combines particularly well with Bergenia, Camellia japonica , Carex, Nandina domestica.
Bergenia cordifolia
