The Wine and Roses weigela (Weigela florida ‘Alexandra’) is a relatively fast-growing shrub, typically reaching 4 to 6 feet high at maturity. When properly cared for and in ideal growing conditions, it is capable of gaining up to 24 inches in height during a single growing season.
It prefers full sun, well-draining soils, and moderate amounts of water. Despite its name, the Wine and Roses weigela produces pink flowers rather than red. The foliage is a deep, dark purple and evergreen in warmer climates.
Prune judiciously after blooming to keep the plant vigorous and attractive.
Do Wine and Roses weigela need full sun?
No, the Wine and Roses Weigela (Weigela florida “WBRA2”) does not need full sun to perform best in the landscape. This shrub thrives in part to full shade, making it ideal for a variety of landscaping needs.
However, it will flower best in full sun and needs at least 4 hours of direct sunlight every day. With proper care, Wine and Roses Weigela will flower continuously from early May to late October and can reach a mature height of 3-4 feet and width of 2-3 feet.
To ensure optimal flowering and growth, be sure to provide rich and well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter, consistent moisture, and a layer of mulch at the base of the plant. Proper pruning in late winter or early spring can also help promote vigorous growth and fuller flowering.
Is weigela fast growing?
Weigela is usually classified as an “average” grower – it is not particularly fast growing, nor is it particularly slow growing. Many types of Weigela have been bred to have a more compact growing habits and blooms that last longer, so if you are looking for a fast growing variety, you might want to look for those.
Generally speaking, Weigela will put out new growth at a steady rate and can potentially reach between 3-5 feet in height. Pruning and regular fertilization will also help boost growth, although Weigela is tolerant of different growing conditions.
Its best to choose a variety that is suited to your area and provide care accordingly.
Does weigela lose its leaves in winter?
Yes, Weigela does lose its leaves in the winter. As it is an deciduous shrub, meaning that it loses all its leaves in winter and grows new leaves in the springtime. Generally, the leaves will start to fall off in late September and early October, and the shrub will be completely leafless by mid to late November.
Additionally, in extreme cases such as when temperatures drop too low or in areas where there are additional environmental concerns, the leaves may start to fall off earlier.
Should you cut back weigela in the fall?
It is not necessary or recommended to cut back weigela in the fall. Weigela is a popular deciduous shrub that can tolerate most climates and provide a pop of color in the garden. This hardy shrub requires minimal pruning to keep it looking neat and tidy and should not be cut back in the fall when the leaves start to die back from the chill of the coming winter months.
Some gardeners will remove dead or broken branches in the early spring when the plant shows reliable new growth to tidy up their plant. If necessary, weigela can also be lightly pruned in the summer months to encourage new growth and help control its size.
Removing too much of the shrub in the fall may cause it to look limp and drawn, since this shrub will not have time to set new buds before the onset of winter. Weigela should be given a light pruning at most and simply left to prepare for winter weather.
How big do weigela bushes get?
Weigela bushes can grow to be quite large, depending on the variety. Most standard varieties will grow to heights of 5-6 feet and widths of 4-5 feet. Some newer varieties are available that will grow up to 8 feet, with corresponding widths.
Weigela bushes are wide, upright growing, and when mature, their branches are strong enough to support the thick foliage and eventual flowers. Pruning is advised for the bush to maintain a pleasing form, as well as keeping it from becoming overcrowded or unmanageable.
Weigela plants thrive best when planted in an area with full sun and moist, well-draining soil. Due to their hardy nature they are known to be tolerant of clay, soggy, and dry soils, though they will require more irrigation in such conditions.
What can I plant next to weigela?
Weigela makes a wonderful addition to any garden with its cascading clusters of tubular-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, or white that make it stand out. Planting companion plants next to weigela will enhance its beauty and make up for a more dynamic display.
A few suitable companion plants that thrive next to weigela are: Rose Primrose, Lady’s mantle, Pentas, Snow pea plants, Russian sage, Spirea, Periwinkle vinca, Dwarf Alberta spruce, Barberry, Catmint, Hostas, heucheras, and Fragaria vesca (woodland strawberry).
These companion plants have unique blooms and foliage of their own, helping to create a stunning floral display in your garden. Rose Primrose can provide a dose of vivid color when it flowers in early springtime, while the blooms of Pentas will keep the spot bright throughout the summer.
Periwinkle vinca can also be planted to add a pop of cool colors in shades of purple and blue to the surrounding flowers. Barberry and Hostas offer various shades of green and can add visual interest to the area.
Regardless of what plants you decide to combine in your garden with Weigela, it’s important to group them closely together and disturb the soil around them regularly to keep them thriving. Also, make sure to pick your companions wisely, as some more aggressive plants, such as creeping phlox, may end up crowding out the delicate weigela.
Does weigela bloom all summer?
No, weigela does not bloom all summer. Weigela tends to produce most of its blooms in the springtime, typically between April and June. After the spring blooms, weigela plants may produce a few flowers here and there during the summer months, but blooms are usually sparse during this time.
To get the best show of blooms, deadhead (remove faded or spent blooms) regularly during the spring, and prune the plants in late summer or early fall. This will help encourage more blooms in the spring the following year.
What goes well with wine and roses weigela?
Pairing wine and roses weigela with other plants and landscaping elements will create a beautiful and complete landscape design. For example, plant combinations such as ornamental grasses, hostas, and/or ferns would provide texture and a variety of foliage colors, textures, and patterns that contrast nicely with the deep purple-pink color of wine and roses weigela.
Adding garden ornaments such as birdbaths, gazing globes, statues, and trellises will add kinetic and visual interest to the space. Additionally, shrubs with white, mauve, or light-toned flowers, such as hydrangeas, azaleas, rhododendrons, or crape myrtles, will brighten up and add contrast to the royal purple-pink of the weigela.
Where should I plant a weigela?
Weigela is a hardy shrub that grows best in full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a spot where it will get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. It prefers moist, well-draining soil, so if you have an area in your garden that’s prone to water-logging, it may not be the best place for the plant.
Weigela also does well in areas that have moderate shelter from wind, as it can be sensitive to strong gusts. If you can find a spot that meets these criteria, you should be able to successfully plant a Weigela.
Do weigela have invasive roots?
Weigela (Weigela florida) are a genus of deciduous shrubs that feature small, bell-shaped flowers in spring and summer. This shrub is a sturdy and beautiful addition to any garden, and its roots generally remain within its confines.
Weigela is not considered to be an invasive plant; in fact, its root system is typically quite well behaved and rarely gets out of hand.
While there is anecdotal evidence of Weigela roots growing dangerously close to sidewalks, driveways, and buildings, its shallow, fibrous root system is easily managed and typically does not cause any long-term damage.
Regular pruning and maintenance can help keep the root system in check, as well as regularly adding a layer of mulch once or twice a year to the base of the shrub.
In short, Weigela is a good choice for the garden, as its roots are not typically considered to be invasive. With proper care and maintenance, this shrub can bring joy and beauty to your garden, while not causing any undue damage to your surrounding property.
Can weigela grow in shade?
Yes, weigela can grow in shade! Weigela shrubs are fairly adaptable and can thrive in partial shade to full sun conditions. The shrubs may need some shade from hot midday sun, however, depending on your climate and location.
When it comes to weigela and other plants, the ideal spot is an area that gets morning sun and shade in the afternoon. This will provide the plant with the necessary solar energy to grow and the protection from cooler temperatures in the evening.
Additionally, taking into account the water requirements for the weigela, a partially shaded location is usually ideal. This will provide the plant with the extra humidity it needs to survive. With the right care and attention, weigela can provide great color and texture to both sunny and shady locations.
How many hours of sun does a weigela need?
Most weigela shrubs need full sun or at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun each day. Those growing in partial shade will require more frequent watering to survive the hotter months and may not flower as abundantly as weigela grown in full sun locations.
For the best performance, weigela should be planted in a sunny location that gets at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun each day.
How often should I water my weigela?
Watering a weigela depends on many factors, including the size and age of the plant, the soil type and texture, the amount of rainfall and the local climate. Generally speaking, however, weigelas need to be watered on a regular basis.
In general, during the active growth period in spring and summer, freshly planted weigelas should be watered deeply once a week, while established weigelas can be watered deeply twice a week. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out in between waterings and never let the plant sit in standing water.
During the winter months, when the plant is in its dormancy, decrease watering to once every two weeks. It is also important to provide supplemental water during extended dry periods in the summer. Good drainage is important for preventing root rot, so it is best to make sure your weigela is planted in well-draining soil.
Why is my weigela not blooming?
First, it may be planted in the wrong location – these plants prefer full sun, so if it’s planted in shade, it may not bloom.
Second, it may not be pruned correctly or at all. Weigela should be pruned in late winter or early spring to allow for the new growth to set in and result in a flower-filled bush. Third, it could be nutrient deficient.
Weigela prefer a nutrient-rich soil, so if the soil is depleted, your plant won’t bloom. Lastly, if your weigela is young, it may simply not be old enough – weigela typically won’t flower until they’re two or three years old.
To make sure your weigela blooms, make sure it’s planted in a location that receives full sun exposure, prune it to create a good framework and shape, and ensure the soil is replenished with plenty of nutrients.
With the right care, your weigela should be blooming soon!.
What is the fertilizer for weigela?
Fertilizer with a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) should be used when planting and caring for weigela. For leaf and bloom development, apply a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 at a rate of 1 tablespoon per square foot.
These amounts should be applied in the spring before new growth has started. In the summer, apply a liquid fertilizer about every 4 to 6 weeks. Water the plant deeply after feeding. For additional bloom enhancement and increased vigor, use a fertilizer with a higher ratio of phosphorus, such as a 5-10-5.
Fertilizing too much can cause excess foliage growth and decreased blooming. Too much nitrogen can also damage and even kill the plant. It’s best to apply a balanced fertilizer in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
