Neillia affinis

Neillia affinis, also known as false spirea, is a graceful bush. In spring, it bears clusters of small pale-pink flowers. It develops lush green foliage with serrated edges in late spring, and forms a beautiful arching, open, almost weeping habit. Native to China and Tibet, where it grows on rocky riverbanks and in thickets at medium altitudes, it will find its place in all gardens and adapt to all climates.

Neillia affinis belongs to the Rosaceae family and is native to Western China and Tibet. The growth rate of this bush is moderate to fast and its mature size will not exceed 1.5m (5ft) in all directions. It forms a small deciduous bush with an arching and open habit. In May and June, clusters of small pale-pink flowers appear at the ends of the branches. They are followed by small fruits with a crown of stamens. The elegant foliage resembles that of raspberry and blackberry. The triangular and elongated leaves are serrated. The foliage is a lush green marginated with purple, before turning orange and yellow in autumn. The bare, reddish-brown, zig-zagging branches remain decorative in winter.

Plant Neillia affinis in clay or loamy, humus-bearing, moist to dry, well-drained, fertile, neutral to acidic soil. It tolerates some limestone. Young plants may suffer from harsh winters if not covered by snow, but they regrow from the base in spring. This bush will thrive in partial shade or sun, but not in a scorching exposure. When happy, Neillia affinis spreads rapidly through rhizomes or by rooting of the stems in contact with the ground. Prune dead branches in spring.

Neillia affinis will find its place in a mixed hedge, shrub borders, or even as a standalone plant. You can mix it with old or English roses, which its grace and simplicity will lighten. In a rural scene, it can also accompany the double red bramble (Rubus spectabilis 'Olympic Double'), a cousin with similar requirements. Note that its resistance to drought once established and the hardiness of this bush mean it can be grown in many situations.