Contents
Description
Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum Fire Dance is a stunning evergreen shrub that belongs to the witch hazel family. Its foliage is a beautiful dark purple color that turns to shades of red and bronze in the fall. In the spring, it produces small, delicate pink flowers that have a sweet fragrance. This plant is native to China and Japan and has become increasingly popular in landscaping due to its unique and attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Hamamelidaceae |
| Genus | Loropetalum |
Appearance
The Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum Fire Dance is a medium-sized evergreen shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has a rounded shape and a dense growth habit. The foliage is a beautiful dark purple color that turns to shades of red and bronze in the fall. The leaves are oval-shaped and about 1-2 inches long. In the spring, it produces small, delicate pink flowers that have a sweet fragrance. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and grow in clusters at the end of the branches.
Care Guide
Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum Fire Dance is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful shrub:
Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Afterward, water as needed to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with organic matter before planting to improve soil quality.
Sunlight: Plant in full sun to part shade. The Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum Fire Dance prefers a location with some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum Fire Dance is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. To prevent pest infestations, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If an infestation does occur, treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum Fire Dance is native to China and Japan. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and riverbanks. In landscaping, it is often used as a specimen plant, hedge, or border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize my Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum Fire Dance?
A: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: What hardiness zones is this plant suitable for?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Q: Does the Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum Fire Dance require a lot of sunlight?
A: This plant prefers full sun to part shade. It may benefit from a location with some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Q: Is the Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum Fire Dance resistant to pests and diseases?
A: This plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites.
Related Plants
– Loropetalum Chinense Var. Chinense- Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum- Loropetalum Chinense Var. Rubrum ‘Burgundy’
References
– “Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum ‘Fire Dance'” Missouri Botanical Garden- “Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum – Chinese fringe flower” North Carolina State University Extension- “Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum ‘Fire Dance'” University of Florida IFAS Extension
