Old-fashioned Weigela 'Rosea'

Old-fashioned Weigela 'Rosea' (Weigela florida 'Rosea') is a classic of the May garden. In late spring the spreading shrub, with its arching, slightly drooping branches, covers itself in funnel-shaped pink-red flowers, paler inside, so that from a distance the crown looks like a pink cloud.

Plant it as a flowering accent on a lawn, in an informal group or as a loose screen; it is also at home in coastal gardens. In ten years the shrub reaches 1.5-2.5 m in height and width, so give it room to spare.

Key characteristics:

• What makes it special: This old form is the parent of most modern weigelas with dark or variegated leaves.
• Dimensions: 1.5-2.5 m tall and 1.5-2.5 m wide at 10 years.
• Hardiness: Hardy down to -34 °C (USDA zone 4).
• Flowering: In late May to June funnel-shaped pink-red flowers open, paler inside.
• Light: Full sun or partial shade, though it flowers most abundantly in a sunny spot.
• Soil: Takes any garden soil, whatever its texture or pH - as long as it is fertile, moist and well drained.
• Watering: Water moderately and regularly; keep the soil moist but never waterlogged.
• Care: Prune after flowering in midsummer (group 2); rejuvenation pruning is done in early spring.
• Landscape use: Cottage and informal gardens, coastal plantings; a lovely flowering accent and informal screen.