LOROPETALUM chinense 'Black Pearl'

Description: Common name: Chinese Witch Hazel. An evergreen compact shrub with dark purple leaves and spider-like deep pink flowers in spring

Uses: Dramatic contrast of leaf colour and flower shape and colour

Climate/Position: Sunny position, sheltered from wind

Height/Spread: The stem height will not increase but the frame size should over time

Soil Requirements: Well drained, but humus rich soil. Topiary can be grown in pots, the compost will need to be refreshed every 2 to 3 years

Pruning: Train new growth in to the framework, when there are no gaps in the frame then trim annually with topiary shears or hedge-cutters in early or late summer to keep specimen in shape

Special Requirements: Suckers and unwanted branches can also be removed from the stems