ShrubsWeigela florida
Weigela
Weigela is a versatile ornamental shrub that becomes smothered in trumpet-shaped flowers in pink to deep red during May and June. The shrub has a broad, arching growth habit and makes an attractive backdrop in the border. Some cultivars feature striking dark red or variegated foliage that extends interest into autumn.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 150–250 cm
- Spread
- 150–250 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 4–8
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- pink, red
- Wildlife value
- bees, hummingbirds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. Weigela is undemanding about soil type. Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first year. Feed with an organic fertiliser in early spring.
Pruning tips
Prune immediately after flowering by cutting back flowered stems by a third. Remove a few of the oldest stems at the base each year for rejuvenation. Avoid late pruning that limits next year's blooming.
Good companions
ShrubsHydrangea macrophylla
Hydrangea
Hydrangea is a popular garden shrub with large, globe-shaped flower heads blooming from June through September. The flowers turn blue in acidic soil and pink in alkaline soil. A sturdy plant that thrives in sheltered spots with partial shade.
ShrubsBuxus sempervirens
Boxwood
Boxwood is an evergreen shrub with small, glossy dark green leaves that is ideal for topiary and hedging. The plant grows slowly and can live for hundreds of years. Small green-yellow flowers appear in April and May, attracting early bees.
ShrubsSpiraea japonica
Japanese Spirea
Japanese spirea is a compact, free-flowering shrub with flat clusters of pink flowers from June to August. The shrub has a neat, rounded form and works perfectly in small gardens, low hedges, or as border edging. Some cultivars feature decorative yellow-green or bronze-tinted foliage.