Mortellaro's Nursery
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Chinese Fringe Flower
Loropetalum chinense
Discontinued
Loropetalum is a broadleaf evergreen shrub known for its striking foliage, delicate fringe-like flowers, and year-round interest. It is commonly used as a foundation planting, hedge, or accent shrub in landscapes. The deep burgundy leaves and vibrant pink to red flowers, which bloom in spring and sporadically throughout the year, make it a standout addition to gardens seeking bold color contrast.
This shrub prefers acidic, well-draining soil and thrives in partial to full sun. It is drought tolerant once established but benefits from occasional deep watering during extreme heat. Deer-resistant and generally low maintenance, it requires only occasional pruning to maintain its shape. Loropetalum grows to a mature height of 6-10 feet with a spread of 5-8 feet, depending on the variety. When planting as a hedge, spacing of 4-6 feet apart ensures full coverage.
In USDA Zones 7-10, Loropetalum is cold-hardy but may experience leaf drop in extreme cold. In Texas, mulching around the base can help insulate the roots in colder areas. It is generally evergreen in mild winters but may need some pruning in early spring to remove any winter-damaged foliage.
While Loropetalum is popular in many parts of the country, it is not well-suited for most of Central Texas due to its intolerance of alkaline soils and water. In high-pH conditions, the foliage may lose its rich burgundy color, turning green and appearing chlorotic. Additionally, the intense summer heat and prolonged droughts can cause significant stress, leading to poor growth and reduced flowering. For Central Texas landscapes, alternative plants that tolerate alkaline soils and intense heat may be a better choice.
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Evergreen flowering shrub |
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Deer-resistant and drought tolerant |
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Low tolerance of alkaline conditions |
Flower Color:Pink |
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Height:5-6 Feet |
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Spread:5-6 Feet |
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USDA Hardiness Zone 7a
Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Habit
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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