Life Cycle: Evergreen
Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8
H x W (approx): 2.5 ft tall by 3 ft wide
Spacing: 2-4 ft
Bloom Time: Spring
Flower Color: Cream, white, urn-shaped flowers
Foliage Color: Bright red new growth, dark green mature foliage that turns a deep burgundy to maroon in the winter
Habit: Compact and freely branching
Containers?: Yes, make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate
Light Requirement: Full sun to heavy shade; best in filtered sun
Water Requirement: While it can tolerate brief dry spells, it thrives with regular watering, especially during hot, dry, weather
Maintenance Category: Low maintenance
Uses: Mixed borders, foundation planting, containers, hedges and borders, accent, woodland planting, erosion control
Maintenance Notes:
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Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot or dry periods. It dislikes drought, particularly in winter, so mulching around the base helps retain moisture.
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Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed. Trim back spent flower stems in late spring to encourage healthy new growth. Light shaping can be done in early spring if required.
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Fertilizing: Feed with a slow-release, acidic plant fertilizer in spring to maintain strong growth and vibrant foliage color.
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Soil Care: Ensure the soil is well-drained but moisture-retentive, acidic, and rich in organic matter (peat or fine bark can be mixed in). Avoid heavy or alkaline soils.
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Mulching: Apply a layer of leaf litter or bark mulch to regulate soil temperature and moisture levels.
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Sun/Shade: While it tolerates full sun with adequate moisture, it thrives best in part shade to filtered light, where the foliage retains its color intensity.
