Lorpetalum chinensis 'Zhuzhou' (Loropetalum)

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USDA Hardiness Zone: 7A - 10A
Mature Height: 6 to 12 ft
Mature Spread: 10 to 15 ft
Growth Rate: Moderate
Availability: Generally available
Drought Tolerance: Moderate
Salt Tolerance: Low to moderate
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial sun.
Native Origin: Not native to North America. Invasive potential has not been assessed.
Soil Drainage: Needs a well-drained site.
Foliage: Evergreen tree with beautiful purple to fuchsia color of the undersides of the leaves.
Flowers: Pink, showy, fragrant flowers in the spring.
Pests: Free of serious pests and diseases.

Description: Loropetalum prefers an acid soil and a mostly sunny position in the landscape. Its small size makes it well suited for planting in back of a shrub border or for use as a small tree near the patio. Limb the tree up to make a small tree; mass several together to make a dramatic statement and a nice, delicate flower show. It can be trained into a nice espalier. This is becoming a popular shrub used for many landscapes situations.

Gainesville Observations: Might be usable as a small multi-trunked ornamental tree near power lines due to its small stature. We are not sure yet as to appropriateness for use as a street tree due to its shrubby habit. Flowers have been less than spectacular so far but some of this might be related to the plant's adjustment to our site from a field nursery in Georgia. Foliage has not been reliable attractive throughout the year. Perhaps more time is needed for these trees to adapt to our growing conditions.

Fact Sheet (pdf)
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