About
Exochorda serratifolia is a deciduous pearlbush with serrated leaves producing the characteristic arching stems and pure-white, five-petalled flowers of the genus in spring. An ornamental and rewarding spring-flowering shrub for a sunny position.
About the genus
Exochorda, the pearlbushes, are deciduous shrubs with simple, pale-green leaves and terminal racemes of saucer-shaped, five-petalled, white flowers in spring. One of the most beautiful of all spring-flowering shrubs, particularly spectacular when in full bloom.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toChina
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moist but well drained soil, in sun or dappled shade. Good as a specimen plant or in a shrub border. Does not do well on shallow chalk.
PruningPruning group 2, after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown in a seedbed in autumn, or by softwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)