Chinese Fringe Flower
Loropetalum chinense · Evergreen broadleaf shrub or small tree, hardwood
Plant Family
Hamamelidaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental Flowering Shrub/Small Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Purple foliage cultivars such as 'Plum Gorgeous' or 'Zhuzhou Fuchsia', known for dark burgundy leaves and vibrant pink tassel-like flowers.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 7 through 9, adapting well to warm temperate and subtropical climates.
About This Tree
Dense, rounded to spreading evergreen shrub or small multi-stemmed tree often pruned into hedges. Features striking dark purple to bronze foliage and delicate, strap-like fringe flowers.
Leaf Characteristics
Small, alternate, simple leaves with ovate to elliptic shapes, smooth or slightly wavy margins, measuring 1 to 2 inches long, featuring deep burgundy-purple or dark olive-green colors.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth, light gray to brown bark on younger stems, becoming slightly fissured and mottled with age.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to woodlands, thickets, and low hills in China, Japan, and the Himalayas.
Growing Season
Evergreen with peak flowering typically occurring in early spring (March to April), followed by sporadic blooming through the summer and fall.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Requires moderate, regular watering during establishment, becoming moderately drought-tolerant once mature.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 6 to 15 feet in height with an equal or greater spread depending on pruning, growing at a moderate rate with a lifespan of 30 to 50 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for year-round colorful foliage, brilliant spring blooms, resistance to most pests and diseases, and excellent tolerance to heavy pruning.
Wildlife & Ecology
Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies to its delicate spring blossoms, while providing dense cover and nesting habitat for small birds.