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Description
Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum, commonly known as Chinese Fringe Flower, is a stunning evergreen shrub that belongs to the witch hazel family. This plant is native to Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. It has dark green leaves that have a bronze tint when young and produce beautiful pink, red, or white flowers that bloom in early spring. It can grow up to 6-10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide if left unpruned.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Hamamelidaceae |
| Genus | Loropetalum |
Appearance
Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum has an attractive appearance that makes it a desirable addition to any garden. It has a dense, bushy growth habit with arching branches that give it a graceful look. The leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and have a deep green color. The flowers bloom in clusters and are either pink, red, or white, depending on the variety. They have a spidery appearance and are about 1 inch in diameter. The plant produces small, black fruit that matures in late summer.
Care Guide
Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are a few tips to help you care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry weather. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring before new growth appears. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum is generally healthy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, like any plant, it can be susceptible to a few problems:
- Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap to control them.
- Canker: This fungal disease causes sunken areas on the bark and can lead to dieback. Prune infected branches and dispose of them to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum is native to Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and riverbanks. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to prune Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum?
A: The best time to prune this plant is in early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum tolerate shade?
A: Yes, this plant can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7-9.
Q: Does Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of this plant attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Loropetalum Chinense
- Loropetalum Chinense ‘Ruby’
- Loropetalum Chinense ‘Burgundy’
- Loropetalum Chinense ‘Sizzling Pink’
References
- “Loropetalum chinense.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=259233&isprofile=1&basic=Loropetalum>.
- “Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum.” North Carolina State University Extension. Accessed 12 May 2021. <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/loropetalum-chinense-var-rubrum/>.
- “Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 12 May 2021. <https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp601>.
