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Growing Loropetalum Shrubs

Loropetalum shrubs are incredibly popular evergreen shrubs that thrive in Zones 7-10. They are often called Chinese fringe flowers. Here’s what you need to know about growing Loropetalum shrubs and why you shouldn’t overlook this shrub for your landscaping.

If you live in a Southern area, you’ve likely seen this stunning shrub. Loropetalum has amazing pinkish/purple flowers that have a fringed look to them. They bloom in spring and summer. And one of the best things about certain varieties is their striking purple year-round color.

Growing Loropetalum

If you are new to gardening or worry about your ability to grow a plant, Loropetalum is the perfect choice for you. These are super easy to grow and once you get them established, they don’t need a lot of care.

What Zones are Best for Loropetalum?

Loropetalum is best suited for Zones 7-10. They prefer warmer climates.

Find your zone here

Do Loropetalum Prefer Sun or Shade?

Honestly, they will thrive in both sun and shade. Partial sun or partial shade – they can take it all. If it’s a particularly warm climate, they might prefer a bit of afternoon shade.

But, I’ve grown these in the full blazing sun in Georgia and they’ve done great.

What Type of Soil is Best for Growing Loropetalum?

Well-drained soil with compost or organic matter is best and they will not thrive in alkaline soil. They prefer neutral to acidic soil. You can easily check your soil pH with an at-home test like this one.

How Tall Do Loropetalum Shrubs Grow?

They vary depending on the variety you choose. Some can grow from 1 foot to 15 feet tall. They are available as groundcovers, types suitable for pots, choices for privacy hedges, and more. It all depends on what you need or want.

Check out this article detailing the many varieties of Loropetalum.

loropetalum foliage

What Color Leaves does Loropetalum Have?

They are available in either green or purple-hued leaves. I prefer the purple /burgundy hues because you don’t often see evergreen shrubs with this shade of foliage.

Is Loropetalum Easy To Grow and How Fast Do They Grow?

Yes! These are fantastic for beginner gardeners. And they are ideal choices for blank landscapes that need something quick. They grow 1-2 feet per year and can offer good privacy in a short amount of time.

Are Loropetalum Shrubs Annuals or Perennials?

These are perennial and evergreen which means they don’t have to be replanted every year and they don’t lose their leaves in the winter.

loropetalum blooming

When Do Loropetalum Shrubs Bloom?

Most often you will see the pink fringed blooms in the spring. They are prolific bloomers and your whole shrub will be covered in the delicate spidery-looking flowers. It’s so beautiful to see them covered in pink.

Do I Need to Prune My Loropetalum Shrubs?

Likely yes – they tend to grow a bit wildly, but this all depends on the look you prefer. If you do prune, make sure it’s after your plant blooms in spring or summer. You can easily shape them into a more compact shrub or let them grow tall.

Loropetalum and Sunshine Ligustrum
Loropetalum and Sunshine Ligustrum

What Plants Look Good With Loropetalums?

If you have a taller variety of Loropetalum, they look stunning with Sunshine Ligustrum or dark green Euonymus. Hostas will look lovely planted in front of them. Anything with bright green or dark green foliage will contrast beautifully with Loropetalums.

Loropetalum shrub blooming
Euonymus and Loropetalum

Summary – Growing Loropetalum Shrubs

If you live in Zones 7-10, hopefully, you’ll try growing Loropetalum shrubs. They are so easy to grow, fast-growing evergreen shrubs, and they have beautiful blooms.

Image with text: Loropetalums - all you need to know about this evergreen shrub