About
Enkianthus deflexus, Himalayan red bells, is a fast-growing, upright deciduous shrub with red young shoots and polished, oval, fresh-green leaves turning vivid red and orange in autumn. Pendulous clusters of campanulate, creamy flowers with dark-pink veins appear in late spring and early summer. A vigorous and highly ornamental woodland garden shrub for a moist, acidic soil.
About the genus
Enkianthus are deciduous shrubs from East Asia producing simple, alternate leaves that often colour brilliantly in autumn, and pendulous clusters of small, urn- or bell-shaped flowers in spring or early summer. Excellent woodland garden shrubs for a moist, slightly acidic soil.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
Native toNepal to S China
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, humus-rich, acid or neutral soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility