About

This compact, semi-evergreen shrub to around 50cm high, with a spreading habit and oval-shaped, dark green leaves strongly flushed with purple-bronze, especially when young. Scented, tassel-like white flowers with long narrow petals are produced in early spring.

About the genus

Loropetalum are evergreen, free-flowering, shrubs with star-shaped hairs. Flowers are in clusters at the end of short branches, with thin, strap-like petals similar to those of their witch hazel relatives, and also produced in late winter and early spring

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
FragranceFlower

Care notes

CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil, in sun or part shade with shelter from cold winds. May need watering in dry spells in summer. Not suitable for waterlogged or shallow chalk soils
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by rooting semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer. As this plant is protected by Plant Breeders' Rights, any propagation should be for personal rather than commercial use
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free