Family: Caprifoliaceae

These popular, deciduous shrubs are grown for their prolific flower display, in late spring and early summer. There are ten species, native to eastern Asia.

Species

W. florida is grown for the magnifi­cent, late spring and early summer display of trumpet-shaped, rose pink flowers borne on slender, arching branches. It grows 2-3 m (6-10 ft) high. There are several cultivars including 'Java Red' with red-flushed leaves, and 'Variegate' with white-edged foliage.

W. japonica grows to 3 m (10 ft(, the white buds opening to red in spring.

W. praecox, to 2.5 m (8 ft), has scented, pink flowers, yellow inside. Most weigelas grown are named hybrids and there are many from which to choose.

Cultivation

These shrubs do well in most con­ditions, but prefer an open, sunny position and fertile soil. Prune after flowering by cutting back the old, flowered stems to young shoots or growth buds lower down. Every few years, cut out completely some of the oldest stems. Propagate either from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, with basal warmth, or hardwood cuttings in winter, in a garden frame.

Climate

Zone 5 for most species; zone 6 for W. japonica.