Loropetalum 'Plum Gorgeous'

• Native to China and Japan, Loropetalum belongs to the witch hazel family and has been cultivated for centuries in Asian gardens.
• 'Plum Gorgeous' features distinctive burgundy-purple foliage that intensifies in cooler weather and maintains colour through most of the year.
• Produces clusters of fragrant, spider-like pink flowers with ribbon-shaped petals in spring, creating beautiful contrast against dark leaves.
• Grows in a naturally compact, rounded form reaching 1-2 metres, making it ideal for smaller gardens and low-maintenance landscapes.

• Water deeply once or twice weekly during warmer months, reducing to monthly in winter when growth slows.
• Position in morning sun with afternoon protection in hot climates, or full sun in temperate regions.
• Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with good organic content and mulch around base.
• Feed with slow-release fertiliser in early spring and again in early autumn for best growth and colour.
• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape, removing any dead or crossing branches.
• Tolerates moderate drought once established but benefits from consistent moisture during hot Australian summers.

• Provide morning sun with afternoon shade in hot Australian climates, or full sun in cooler regions for best foliage colour development.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings during growing season and reduce in winter.
• Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter for optimal growth and colour.
• Maintain moderate humidity around the plant by mulching and avoiding overhead watering during hot periods.
• Prune lightly after flowering in late spring to maintain shape and encourage dense growth.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth causing leaf curl and sticky honeydew. Spray with insecticidal soap or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds to control naturally.
• Root rot occurs in poorly draining soils or with overwatering. Ensure well-draining soil and allow top layer to dry between waterings.
• Scale insects may attach to stems and leaves, appearing as small brown bumps. Remove manually or treat with horticultural oil spray.
• Leaf spot diseases can develop in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Improve spacing between plants and avoid overhead watering.