Loropetalum chinensis 'Daybreak Flame' 15cm

Loropetalum chinense 'Daybreak's Flame'

A vibrant, multi-hued evergreen shrub that offers colour and interest for every season. New growth emerges in rich burgundy and red, settling to tones of purple and bronze as the leaves mature, and in spring the shrub is smothered in sweetly scented, dark pink, spider-like flowers with narrow, ribbon-like petals — a real standout in the winter and early spring garden.

Bushy and evergreen, 'Daybreak's Flame' makes an excellent feature specimen where its foliage colour can be enjoyed year-round, and works equally well as informal hedging, mass planting, or as a colourful anchor in a mixed border. It combines beautifully with green- or silver-leaved companions that let the foliage take centre stage. Non-toxic to pets, it's a safe choice for gardens shared with cats and dogs.

Grow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade, ideally in a sheltered spot with some protection from harsh winter weather. It's a hardy, low-maintenance shrub for most of the UK, though it's best avoided in the coldest, most exposed gardens or given the shelter of a wall in cooler areas, as it can be damaged by severe frost. Little pruning is required beyond removing any wayward shoots after flowering to keep a good shape. Reaching up to 2m (6ft) in height and spread over time, it makes a substantial, long-term addition to the garden.

Each plant is hand-selected before dispatch.