Stachyurus praecox

Not a common plant, Stachyurus praecox deserves to be better known for its lovely display of flowers in late winter. It’s a large, deciduous shrub with an arching, spreading habit and deep purplish-red stems. The leaves are pointed, slender ovals. From February to April, 8cm stiff little ‘tails’ of bell-shaped, greenish-yellow flowers hang from the bare branches; these are a valuable nectar source for pollinators. Early Stachyurus can also be wall-trained. It holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Well drained, humus-rich, acid to neutral soil, preferably moist
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: All year, especially late winter
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 10’ (3m) Spread: 10’ (3m)