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Description
Weigela Japonica Var. Sinica, commonly known as Chinese Weigela, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the Caprifoliaceae family. It is native to China and Korea and can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. The plant has a dense and bushy growth habit and produces beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Weigela |
Appearance
The Chinese Weigela has an upright and spreading growth habit and can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. The plant produces beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer and attract bees and butterflies. The leaves are dark green and ovate in shape, with a pointed tip and serrated edges. In fall, the leaves turn a beautiful shade of red.
Care Guide
To care for the Chinese Weigela, follow these tips:- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the process in late summer.- Soil: Plant the Chinese Weigela in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Plant the Chinese Weigela in full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The Chinese Weigela is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese Weigela is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and aphids. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant is growing in well-drained soil, and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
The Chinese Weigela is native to China and Korea and grows in a wide range of habitats, including forests, mountains, and valleys. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Chinese Weigela a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, the Chinese Weigela is a fast-growing plant.Q: When is the best time to prune the Chinese Weigela?
A: The best time to prune the Chinese Weigela is in late winter or early spring.Q: Can the Chinese Weigela grow in containers?
A: Yes, the Chinese Weigela can be grown in containers. However, ensure that the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: Does the Chinese Weigela attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Chinese Weigela attracts bees and butterflies with its beautiful flowers.
Related Plants
– Weigela florida- Weigela florida ‘Variegata’- Weigela florida ‘Bristol Ruby’- Weigela florida ‘Foliis Purpureis’
References
– Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press.- Huxley, A. (1999). The New Royal Horticultural Society Dictionary of Gardening. Groves Dictionaries.- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Weigela japonica var. sinica. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281128
