Weigela Florida Variegata

Weigela Florida Variegata

Why Buy Me?

• Flowers are attractive to wildlife
• Masses of pink flowers
• sun or part shade

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to light shade. Performs best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In too much shade, the variegation may fade, and flowering could be reduced.

Soil:
Well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Prefers loamy, sandy, or clay-based soils that are not waterlogged. Tolerates slightly acidic to neutral pH but thrives in slightly acidic conditions. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

Exposure:
Tolerant of both sheltered and moderately exposed locations. Hardy in USDA zones 4–8 (UK H5). Cold hardy, though may need protection from strong winds in winter.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Once established, it can tolerate some drought but benefits from regular watering, especially in dry spells. Young plants require consistent moisture for proper root establishment.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Best planted in early spring or autumn, avoiding extreme temperatures. Container-grown plants can be planted throughout the growing season as long as soil moisture is adequate.

Spacing:
Space 90–120 cm (3–4 feet) apart. Grows to a mature size of about 1.2–1.5 m (4–5 feet) tall and wide, forming a compact, rounded shape.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Afterward, water during dry spells to maintain health and bloom production. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote flowering and growth.

Mulching & Pruning:
Apply mulch in spring to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune after flowering in late spring or early summer. Cut back spent flowers and remove any dead or damaged wood to maintain a tidy shape. Light pruning helps ensure more vigorous flowering the following year.

Propagation:
Propagate by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Can also be propagated by layering or from seed, though cuttings are most commonly used.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Attractive variegated foliage emerges with cream and green leaves, providing colourful interest. Flower buds form early in the season, and in late spring to early summer, trumpet-shaped pink flowers bloom profusely.

Summer:
Continued blooming through early summer (May–June) with occasional reblooming in late summer or early autumn. The variegated foliage provides year-round visual interest.

Autumn:
Foliage may take on a slightly bronzed hue in autumn, maintaining its variegated pattern. Less flowering occurs in the fall, but the shrub still provides structure and colour to the garden.

Winter:
Deciduous. Loses its leaves but retains a neat, compact shape, offering structure in the landscape. Prune during dormancy if needed to maintain shape.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies due to its abundant pink flowers. The dense shrub provides cover for birds and insects. While not a major food source for wildlife, its flowers provide important nectar for pollinators.

Garden Use:
Ideal for borders, foundation plantings, and mixed shrub beds. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller gardens, or it can be used as a specimen shrub or informal hedge. Works well in cottage, wildlife, or low-maintenance gardens.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other sun-loving plants such as Spiraea, Salvia, Geranium, Daylilies, or Ornamental Grasses. The creamy, variegated foliage contrasts beautifully with other green or purple-leaved plants and flowers in shades of pink, red, or white.

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Weigela Florida Variegata. It’s just a few clicks away when you order online, or you can stop by your nearest Thompson's Branch to pick one up and chat with our knowledgeable team.