Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire

Description

Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire is a deciduous shrub that is part of the honeysuckle family Caprifoliaceae. It is known for its stunning foliage that changes colors throughout the season, with bright red leaves in the spring and fall, and yellow leaves in the summer. The plant produces trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, and white that bloom in late spring and early summer. It grows to a height of 4-6 feet and a width of 4-5 feet.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire has a compact, rounded growth habit with arching branches. The leaves are ovate, serrated, and up to 4 inches long, with a glossy texture. They emerge bright red in the spring, then turn yellow-green in the summer before changing back to red in the fall. The plant produces tubular flowers that are 1-2 inches long and have five petals. The flowers come in shades of pink, red, and white and bloom in late spring and early summer. The plant’s bark is light brown and has a smooth texture.

Care Guide

Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:

Water:

Water your plant deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather. Make sure the soil is well-draining and does not become waterlogged.

Fertilization:

Fertilize your plant with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring. You can also apply a liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.

Soil:

Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but does best in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.

Sunlight:

Plant your Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but will have fewer flowers and less vibrant foliage.

Hardiness Zones:

Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:

Pests:

• Japanese beetles
• Aphids
• Mites

Diseases:

• Powdery mildew
• Canker
• Leaf spot

Habitat

Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire is native to Korea and Japan. It grows best in temperate climates with cool, moist summers and mild winters.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I prune my Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire?

A: Prune your plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. You can remove up to one-third of the plant’s branches to maintain its shape.

Q: Can I grow Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire in a container?

A: Yes, Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Q: Does Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire is a favorite of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Q: Can I propagate Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire from cuttings?

A: Yes, Weigela Florida Wings Of Fire can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the summer or fall.

Related Plants

• Weigela florida ‘Variegata’
• Weigela florida ‘Candida’
• Weigela florida ‘Bristol Ruby’
• Weigela florida ‘Alexandra’

References

• “Weigela florida ‘Wings of Fire’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h760.
• “Weigela florida.” Plant Encyclopedia, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/weigela/growing-weigela.htm.
• “Weigela Florida ‘Wings of Fire’.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/weigela-florida-wings-of-fire.