Ruby Loropetalum

Light Needs

Part Shade to Full Sun

(4+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

4-6 Feet

Mature Spread

4-6 Feet

Growing Zones

7 to 9

Ruby Loropetalum covers its branches with clusters of fragrant, hot pink fringe flowers in early spring. New leaves open ruby red, mature through green and burgundy tones, and deepen again as cooler weather arrives. Loropetalum chinense var. rubrum ‘Ruby’ develops into a dense evergreen shrub about 5 feet tall and wide. We recommend it in a foundation bed where its layered foliage color carries the planting through the quieter months between flowering seasons.

Its upright, spreading branches form a rounded outline that can be maintained as a hedge, accent shrub, or broad mass planting. This Chinese fringe flower belongs to the witch hazel family and may produce scattered flowers after its primary spring display in mild climates. The evergreen foliage provides year-round coverage in zones 7 through 10, though plants in colder parts of zone 7 benefit from shelter against winter wind. Its moderate size also suits planting beneath utility lines, along property edges, or behind lower-growing perennials.

Ruby Loropetalum Care

Plant Ruby Loropetalum in full sun to partial shade, with six or more hours of direct sun intensifying foliage color and boosting flowering. It grows best in fertile, well-drained soil that remains moderately moist while roots establish. A slightly acidic soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5 supports healthy foliage, while poorly drained or highly alkaline ground may lead to root problems or yellowing leaves.

Water a newly planted shrub deeply two or three times each week during hot, dry weather, allowing the upper layer of soil to begin drying between soakings. Established plants can handle brief dry periods, but drooping leaves or dull foliage signal that irrigation is overdue. Apply a slow-release fertilizer for acid-loving shrubs in early spring, following the label rate rather than feeding heavily. Spread 2 to 3 inches of pine bark or pine straw over the root zone, leaving open space around the stems.

Complete shaping immediately after the main spring bloom so developing flower buds remain intact for the following season. Thin crossing branches from within the canopy and shorten long shoots individually rather than repeatedly shearing the outer surface. Protect container-grown plants when temperatures fall below their rated hardiness range, particularly if pots are exposed to wind.

Ruby Loropetalum Spacing

Space Ruby Loropetalum about 3 to 4 feet apart for a connected hedge, or 5 to 6 feet apart when each shrub should retain its rounded outline. A single 3-gallon plant can move into a sturdy container at least 20 to 24 inches wide with open drainage holes and an acidic, bark-based potting mix. Check container moisture frequently during summer because roots above ground dry more quickly than those planted in garden soil.

Pair loropetalum with leucothoe in a partly shaded, acidic border where both shrubs appreciate organic soil and consistent drainage. Use hellebores to fill the lower foreground with late-winter flowers and Japanese forest grass to add arching foliage near the outer edge of the planting. For a seasonal container combination, pansies can be planted around the perimeter during cool weather and replaced before summer heat builds.

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