Merlot Rose Weigela

The Merlot Rose Weigela is an outstanding dual-effect plant, combining permanent deep burgundy foliage with vibrant pink flowers in mid-spring, and again through summer and into fall. It is a compact plant, about 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide, making it ideal for the front of beds in larger gardens, or as a feature in smaller ones. It is also very suitable for planters and large containers. The leaves are richly colored from the moment they emerge in spring until they drop in fall, without fading or greening in summer, as so many other plants with colored leaves do. The tubular flowers grow in clusters all over the stems, and they are attractive to both butterflies and hummingbirds.

• Powerful dark burgundy foliage from spring to fall
• Beautiful deep-pink flowers in mid-spring
• Repeat flowering in summer and into fall
• Loved by butterflies and hummingbirds
• Compact size for front of beds and small gardens

The Merlot Rose Weigela should be planted in full sun for the best results, but it will also grow in light partial shade. It grows in any well-drained soil, including heavy clay, and it needs no special conditions to thrive, even in urban gardens. It is completely hardy to zone 5, and normally has no pests or diseases. Deer usually ignore it, and this plant is very easy to grow. Pruning in late spring, after the first flowering, will encourage more blooms in summer and fall, as well as stimulating new growth for flowering in the following year.