Kolkwitzia

Family: Caprifoliaceae
Common Name: Beauty Bush

This single-species genus from China is very similar to Abelia, although it is deciduous. It is a lovely shrub, particularly in full bloom in spring or early summer.

Species

K. amabilis grows 3-3.5 m (10-11 ft) tall, with graceful, arching stems and profuse clusters of pink, trumpet-shaped flowers, which are followed by dry, bristly fruits. It has a suck­ering habit, though it never gets out of hand.

Cultivation

Plant in a rich soil in full sun, in autumn or spring. After flowering, cut back flowered stems to younger shoots lower down. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer.

Climate

Zone 4.