Family: Rosaceae

These four species of deciduous shrubs from eastern Asia are grown mainly for their attractive foliage which colours delightful shades of orange in autumn. The light brown, hare branches are very ornamental in winter.

Species

S. incisa, lace shrub or cutleaf stephanandra, from japan and Korea, grows to a height and spread of 2 m (6 ft). The deeply incised leaves are borne on long, graceful, curving stems and the tiny, white flowers form loose sprays.

S. tanakae, 3 m (10 ft) high, has yellowish green flowers on arching, brown stems, clothed with lobed, toothed leaves.

Cultivation

Stephanandras like a rich, moist, loamy soil and full sun. To achieve good autumn colour, they need plenty of water and cool conditions. Prune annually in early spring by cutting out thin, damaged or diseased shoots, as well as about half the remaining shoots, to allow new growth as much room as possible. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer or hardwood cuttings in winter. Plants can also he propagated from rooted suckers removed in winter.

Climate

Zone 5 for S. incisa; zone 6 for S. tanakae.