Lorepetalum Fire Dance

A very ornamental cultivar of the species variant, Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum Fire Dance is a small, evergreen shrub with a rounded, bushy habit, ideal for a smaller, sheltered garden.

The ovate leaves emerge pinky-purple, deepening to a rich plum-purple all year, although sometimes turning greener in summer. Bright pink, spidery, rather witch hazel-like flowers are borne in February and March; they have a light, sweet fragrance and are attractive to early-emerging pollinators.  Loropetalum Fire Dance is one of the few evergreen, purple-leaved shrubs, and looks well with silver foliage and bright red summer flowers.

Loropetalum does require shelter from cold winds and to ensure its hardiness in colder climates, especially during harsh winters, provide protection like a thick layer of mulch around the base and consider growing it in a pot so it can be moved into a protected area. It thrives in moist but well-drained soil and prefers a sunny or lightly shaded spot. Minimal pruning is required to maintain its shape - simply remove any straggly or damaged growth after flowering.

Site: Requires shelter from wind and cold containers
Soil: Moist but well-drained, fertile soil, slightly acidic preferred
Position: Partial shade; full sun tolerated
Season of interest: Late winter to spring (flowers); Year-round (foliage)
Hardiness: Frost-hardy (to -5ºC)
Height: 1 to 1.5 m (3 - 5 ft) Spread: 1 to 1.5 m (3 - 5 ft)