Weigela Alexandra

Weigela Alexandra

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to light shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for the best flower production and to maintain the rich dark foliage colour. Too much shade can result in fewer blooms and faded leaf colour.

Soil:
Well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Grows well in loam, sandy, or clay soils as long as drainage is good. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH but is adaptable.

Exposure:
Tolerant of both sheltered and exposed locations. Hardy in USDA zones 4–8 (UK H5). Cold hardy and wind tolerant once established.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry or hot periods, especially in the first few growing seasons.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Best planted in early spring or autumn to allow roots to establish before extreme weather. Container-grown specimens can be planted year-round if soil is workable and watered appropriately.

Spacing:
Space 90–120 cm (3–4 feet) apart. Mature size is typically around 1.2–1.5 m (4–5 ft) tall and wide, forming a compact, rounded shape.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly during the first growing season. Once established, water during extended dry spells. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage flowering and healthy foliage.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch annually in spring with compost or bark to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune immediately after flowering—remove faded flower clusters and up to one-third of the oldest stems to encourage fresh growth and more blooms the following year. Avoid hard pruning in late summer or autumn.

Propagation:
Propagate by softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. Hardwood cuttings can be taken in late autumn. Can also layer low-hanging branches.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Leaves emerge dark burgundy to purplish-black, adding instant contrast in the garden. Flower buds begin to form.

Summer:
Profuse, trumpet-shaped, deep rose-pink to magenta flowers bloom in late spring to early summer (May–June), often with a light rebloom in late summer. The vibrant flowers contrast strikingly with the dark foliage.

Autumn:
Foliage maintains its deep colour into autumn. Occasional flowers may persist depending on weather. Adds bold colour to mixed borders late in the season.

Winter:
Deciduous. Loses its leaves, but the shrub retains an attractive, rounded structure. Prune during dormancy only if reshaping is needed.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Highly attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Flowers are nectar-rich and beneficial to pollinators. Dense growth provides some shelter for birds and insects.

Garden Use:
Ideal for mixed borders, foundation plantings, and cottage or wildlife gardens. Excellent specimen shrub or planted en-masse for a flowering hedge. Suitable for small gardens due to its compact size and multi-season interest.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other sun-loving perennials and shrubs like Spiraea, Nepeta, Salvia, Geranium, and ornamental grasses. The dark foliage contrasts beautifully with silver, blue, or lime green plants.

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