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by Lydia Holley March 11, 2024
The unusual blooms on fringe flower (Loropetalum) look like miniature cheerleader pom poms, the small strands shaking hoorays for spring’s arrival. The bright pink blooms are just the beginning of fringe flower’s appeal. Even without its blooms, fringe flower stays beautiful, flaunting dark purple leaves.
There are numerous varieties of fringe flower, so when you purchase one, be certain to check the tag for the mature size. ‘Crimson Fire’ and ‘Purple Pixie’ are some of the shortest fringe flowers on the market, both staying under four feet tall. If you are looking to grow fringe flower as a tree, some will grow to 20 feet tall. Most cultivars range between six and eight feet tall and wide.
However, fringe flower is tolerant of pruning and is often seen sheared into a hedge. Be certain to prune after flowering. If you want to get fancy, fringe flower can also be espaliered and is also used in bonsai. If you do not like bright pink, you can find fringe flower plants with white blooms and green leaves.
Fringe flower can be grown in sun or part shade, but the leaves will have less green and more purple if planted in sun. Although fringe flower is native to China, Japan, and the Himalayas, it grows well in East Texas. It can withstand our cold winters and hot summers. It is both drought and deer resistant, and it prefers a slightly acidic soil. Alkaline soil may cause it to develop chlorosis and its roots may rot in standing water.
This year, I have noticed fringe flower blooming alongside redbud trees, and the combination is impressive. A white-flowered fringe flower would look lovely paired with a white-blooming pear tree. Add creeping phlox to make a stunning display from ground to sky.
For more information, call 903-675-6130, email [email protected].
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