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Loropetalum chinensis is brightening up gardens for Spring with its' characteristics. The shrub with gracefully arching and open branching patterns is well suited as a border plant or in a woodland garden. They can reach heights of 6 feet tall by 6 feet wide, or more depending on their variety (some reach 12'x12' - so choose an open area if you select a larger variety).These shrubs are native to the Himalayas, China, and Japan. They are low maintenance and beautiful in the landscape. Loropetalums are cold hardy to zones 7-10, but generally winter over well here in NWA. One of the easiest shrubs to grow, these plants have grown in popularity since they were introduced into the states. With their bright, fragrant flowers, Loropetalum shrubs are perfect for your garden
WateringLoropetalum prefer to grow in well-drained, sandy-loam to loam soil with a slightly acidic pH. Unfortunately, the shrub lacks good drought tolerance, so be sure to keep it watered well during dry spells. Meaning even after the first year or so, you will want to ensure they are watered.*With the potential heat of Arkansas weather, you will most likely need to water every 2 days in the summer months, depending on your garden's microclimate.
Loropetalums keep their leaves, for the most part, year round here in Arkansas. They prefer to be planted in areas where they will receive plenty of sunlight, but they can tolerate a little partial sunlight.
The flowers of the Loropetalum chinensis var. rubrum shrub are really what makes the plant... in our opinion, that is! These bright fuchsia pink flowers are spidery like in appearance. They fill the shrub in late winter to early spring. The foliage is a purplish, burgundy color which helps these flowers standout even more. You can also smell their fragrance lightly around your garden. When necessary, prune in the spring after bloom so as not to reduce flowering the following spring.
Loropetalum shrubs can be rooted with their semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
Once the blooming period has passed, you can fertilize your Loropetalum shrub. This will only need to be done once a year, as they are pretty low maintenance plants. Do Not fertilize your Loropetalum chinensis while it is in bloom!!!
These shrubs have no serious insect or disease problems; however, root rot may occur in poorly drained clay soils. To help this, you may want to consider elevated plantings if your soil is poorly drained clay. Chlorosis may occur in neutral to alkaline soils. As far as insect problems, watch for aphids and mites. Mites may cause the foliage to quickly turn a yellowish color; so be sure to keep an eye out for possible insects on your shrub.[caption id="attachment_1666" align="alignnone" width="1554"]
Come see us to pick out a Loropetalum chinensis shrub that's perfect for your garden!
