Chinese Fringe Flower

Once in a while there is a new plant that makes an impact over the entire country. The new Chinese Fringe Flowers or Loropetalum have been making news all over the country. The attractive colored foliage, the attractive thread like flowers in early spring matched with a graceful arching growth pattern makes a wonderful addition to the plant palatte.

The only problem I have is that they look so innocent sitting in containers in the nursery. I am constantly seeing them planted in areas where they are wanted to grow about 3'x3 '. Unfortunatly for these people they want to grow 8'x8'. If you come by the nursery you can see a 5 year old specimen in the front of the nursery that is spectacular.

Loropetalum are wonderful as a background plant, espallier or as a patio tree. They arnot wonderful small foundation plant. They do well in sun or filtered shade. A terrific plant when used correctly.