“Also from the China-trip inspiration — 'I planted this one I think last fall.'”
Background
Loropetalum chinense (Chinese fringe flower, witch-hazel family) is native to southern China, northern India, and disjunct populations in Japan. It was introduced to the UK in 1880 from seed collected by Charles Maries on Mount Lushan, and to North America in 1908 by USDA explorer Frank Meyer, who found it across central and western China. It stayed obscure in the US until the red/pink-flowered, purple-leafed var. rubrum forms arrived in the 1980s and became a Zone 7-9 staple.
Distinguishing traits
Evergreen shrub, typically 6-15 ft (can reach 20+ ft); arching branches; strap-shaped spidery flowers in white, pink, or red in late winter and spring; many modern cultivars carry burgundy-purple foliage.
Desert care — zone 9b
- Chill hours
- n/a — ornamental
- Cold hardiness
- Zones 7-10; hardy to about 0-10°F depending on cultivar. Freezes are not the issue in Queen Creek.
- Heat tolerance
- Prefers morning sun with afternoon shade in hot climates; full desert sun scorches it.
- Water
- Medium; consistent moisture, especially the first year. Mulch well.
- Soil
- Well-drained, acidic to neutral. Chlorosis (yellowing) occurs in alkaline soils — a real concern in Queen Creek without amendment.
- Sun exposure
- Full sun to part shade; in Phoenix give afternoon shade.