Loropetalum chinense 'China Pink'

An evergreen bushy, arching and spreading shrub growing to around 2m tall and 3m wide.

Leaves are ovate and are dark purple in colour but mature to jade green. From spring to summer, bright pink fringe-like flowers are produced in clusters. Flowers have a slight scent.

Prefers full sun to part shade in moist but well-drained soil. Will tolerate drier conditions once established.

Always choose healthy, well-grown, plants and plant after autumn rains, when the soil is moist and warm allows shrubs to establish a good root system well before summer. Planting is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and forming raised beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, peat, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure. Before planting, ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots or branches and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball to plant in. Long term slow-release fertilisers may be added at this stage. As soil is placed in the prepared hole tread firmly to bring soil in close contact with the root-ball. Unless the soil is very wet, water thoroughly making sure that moisture penetrates to the depth of the root-ball.

Apply an organic mulch annually to help suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Feed annually in spring with a balanced fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square metre in spring as new growth begins. Give plants a trim after flowering to keep growth healthy and compact, especially if they are been treated as a hedge. A couple of trims may be called for throughout the growing season to keep the growth in-check.

Generally trouble-free.

Spring Blossom Valley