Overview
Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' is a bushy shrub in the genus Escallonia, part of the Escalloniaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 3.5 m tall. Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include hedging and specimen planting. It is native to Southern Chile and Argentina.
About
Escallonia rubra, called redclaws and red escallonia, is a species of flowering plant in the family Escalloniaceae. It is native to southern Chile and neighboring areas of Argentina.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Escallonia rubra
About the genus
Escallonia is a genus of shrubs and trees in the family Escalloniaceae. They are native to North and South America.
Wikipedia contributors, "Escallonia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Escallonia
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Escallonia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 3.5 m
- Suggested uses
- Hedging, Specimen planting
- Native to
- Southern Chile, Argentina
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire'
- Pruning
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings, Semi-ripe cuttings, Hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Escallonia leaf spot
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire'?
Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' need?
Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire'?
Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
How big does Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' grow?
Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' reaches a height of 3.5 m.
Is Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' hardy in the UK?
Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire'?
Softwood cuttings, Semi-ripe cuttings, Hardwood cuttings.