About
An unusual, hardy, deciduous shrub with arching stems of aromatic dark green foliage, similar to those of a buddleja, and pendulous racemes of spiky, whiskery-looking pale to lilac pink flowers which appear from the end of summer into the autumn. May be quite difficult to grow.
About the genus
A genus of just two species of deciduous, flowering shrub, native to China with arching, lance-shaped, aromatic dark green foliage and long racemes of whiskery reddish-purple flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitPendulous weeping
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
Native toChina
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a sheltered, warm location in well-drained, humus-rich soil and shelter from cold winds
PruningCut back in autumn after flowering and again in early spring. Will cope with restorative pruning if winter-damaged. See pruning group 3 or pruning group 4
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free