Weigela Hortensis

Description

Weigela Hortensis, also known as the Old Fashioned Weigela, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. It is native to East Asia and was introduced to Europe in the mid-19th century. Weigela Hortensis is a popular ornamental plant due to its showy blooms and ease of care. It typically grows up to 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide, with a dense, round shape.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Weigela Hortensis has oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and up to 4 inches long. The leaves are arranged in an opposite pattern along the stem. The shrub produces clusters of tubular-shaped flowers in late spring and early summer. The flowers are pink or white in color and have a pleasant fragrance. Weigela Hortensis also has smooth, gray-brown bark that becomes more textured as the plant ages.

Care Guide

Weigela Hortensis is a low-maintenance shrub that requires minimal care. Here are the essential care instructions for this plant:Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.Soil: Weigela Hortensis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Plant Weigela Hortensis in full sun or partial shade for best growth.Hardiness Zones: This shrub is hardy in USDA Zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Weigela Hortensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and scale insects can infest Weigela Hortensis.Diseases: Powdery mildew and leaf spot can affect the foliage of this plant.

Habitat

Weigela Hortensis is native to East Asia and can be found in the wild in China, Korea, and Japan. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and along stream banks.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I prune Weigela Hortensis?
A: Prune Weigela Hortensis in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches. You can also prune to shape the plant and promote new growth.Q: Can Weigela Hortensis grow in containers?
A: Yes, Weigela Hortensis can grow in containers, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant and use a well-draining potting mix.Q: How long do the flowers of Weigela Hortensis last?
A: The flowers of Weigela Hortensis typically last for several weeks, depending on the weather conditions.Q: Can Weigela Hortensis tolerate drought?
A: No, Weigela Hortensis prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate drought conditions.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Weigela Hortensis:

• Weigela florida
• Weigela middendorffiana
• Weigela praecox
• Weigela subsessilis

References

• “Weigela Hortensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 3 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277337&isprofile=0&pt=7>
• “Weigela Hortensis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 3 August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/24163/i-Weigela-hortensis-i/Details>
• “Weigela Hortensis.” University of Connecticut Plant Database. Accessed 3 August 2021. <http://www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/detail.php?pid=560>