Weigela florida (Weigela, Old-fashioned Weigela)

Weigela florida (Weigela, Old-fashioned Weigela) is a deciduous shrub native to East Asia.  Weigela is a medium-sized shrub that typically grows between 4 and 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) in height and width. It has an upright, rounded form with arching branches. The leaves are opposite, ovate or elliptical in shape, and have a medium green color. Some cultivars may have variegated or burgundy foliage.

Flowers: One of the main attractions of Weigela is its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers. They bloom in late spring or early summer and come in a range of colors, including shades of pink, red, and white. The flowers are often clustered in terminal or axillary clusters and can attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Habitat: Weigela is adaptable to various soil types and can grow in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained soils but can tolerate a range of soil conditions. It is commonly used in landscapes and gardens as a decorative shrub.

Pruning: Weigela benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and encourage more abundant flowering. Pruning should be done immediately after the spring bloom to avoid cutting off next year's flower buds. Old or damaged branches can be removed to promote new growth.

Other Species and Cultivars: Weigela florida is the most common species, but there are other species and numerous cultivars available in the horticultural trade. Some popular cultivars include 'Bristol Ruby' with red flowers, 'Variegata' with variegated foliage, and 'Pink Poppet' with compact size and pink flowers.

Overall, Weigela is a popular choice for ornamental planting due to its attractive flowers and foliage. It can be used as a specimen plant, in borders, or as part of a mixed shrub planting. Some cultivars have been selected for their compact size, making them suitable for smaller gardens or containers.