Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum Fire Dance - Chinese Witch Hazel

Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum 'Fire Dance' is a bushy shrub resembling witch hazel with its spider-like, strip-shaped flowers, grouped in 3 or 6. This variety has pink flowering. The fuchsia tone of the flowers bursts with contrast in February against its semi-evergreen dark green foliage with young purplish stems. The flowers have a light fragrance.

The oval-shaped leaves are slightly rough. They are a deep reddish-purple when they first open, before possibly turning a medium green.

Be careful to protect it from heavy frosts, as it is only moderately hardy, down to -8° C (17.6° F). You can grow it in pots in cold regions and store it indoors during winter.

Its bushy form and almost evergreen foliage make it suitable for use as a free hedge.

Originally from the forests of the Himalayas, it prefers acidic soil.