Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Loropetalum chinense or Chinese fringe flower

The genus Loropetalum, family Hamamelidaceae, comprises 3 species of shrubs native to Japan and Southeast Asia. The species are: Loropetalum chinense, Loropetalum subcordatum, Loropetalum lanceum.

Common names: Chinese fringe flower, Strap flower. This species is native to Far East.

They are perennial shrubs of open growth and little branching that reach 2 meters (6.56 feet) in height. The decorative green or bronze colored leaves are oval in shape and alternate arrangement. The curious flowers are spider-shaped and can be pink or white. They bloom in winter and early spring.

They are used as isolated specimens, to form borders and hedges and in pots for terraces and balconies. If it is helped with supports it can be a climbing plant.

The Loropetalum chinense can grow in direct sun or semi-shade exposures. It is a fairly rustic plant that tolerates high temperatures and sporadic frosts.

The soil must be acidic (it does not tolerate limestone soil); use a mixture of leaf mulch and normal garden substrate. In case of transplantation or planting, they are done in early spring.

Water periodically, allowing the substrate surface to dry. They resist a few days of drought.

Fertilize the substrate with compost before planting and after each fall. Fertilize during the flowering season with mineral fertilizer every 20 days.

They can be pruned after flowering to maintain a compact or arboreal appearance.

They are quite resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases.

They propagate by cuttings in summer or from seeds sown in spring.

Images of the shrub Loropetalum chinense or Chinese fringe flower