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IIIFolio · plant profile№ 9A40edible
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Crimson weigela

Weigela floribundafam. Rubiaceae
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Weigela floribunda (Crimson weigela) — botanical photograph
Pl. 9A40 — Weigela floribunda
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Overview

Crimson weigela (Weigela floribunda) is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, known for its vibrant red flowers and ornamental value. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well within USDA hardiness zones 5-9, reaching heights of about 2.5 meters. While primarily appreciated for its beauty, crimson weigela is also edible; its leaves are safe to consume and can be prepared in salads or steamed as a side dish. The plant is native to Japan and has been introduced to Bulgaria, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York, where it has become a popular ornamental shrub. Its versatility in both ornamental and culinary contexts makes it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Crimson weigela?

Crimson weigela (Weigela floribunda) is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, known for its vibrant red flowers and ornamental value. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).

Compare with:Black Sapote→Coprosma areolata→Coprosma atropurpurea→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Crimson weigela thrives in full to partial sun, making it adaptable to various light conditions. It prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This shrub is hardy in zones 5-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. Regular watering is essential to maintain its health, especially in drier periods. For propagation, stem cuttings can be used. Leaves are edible, adding a unique flavor to dishes.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
2.5 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Crimson weigela for the first time

7steps

Start with planting Crimson weigela for a low-maintenance, colorful addition to your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Crimson weigela plants or seeds, potting soil, containers if needed, and gardening tools.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; mix compost for containers if needed.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants in the spring, or sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before planting outside.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight for a few days after planting.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun or partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter to remove dead wood and encourage new growth; no edible parts are harvested.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of the Crimson weigela (Weigela floribunda) are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often prepared in salads for a light addition or steamed as a side dish. Skip the flowering and fruiting parts; only the leaves offer culinary use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

1 native · 5 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 1 native· 5 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Bulgaria
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
Broader regions
introduced:Connecticut, Masachusettes, Massachusetts, New York
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Weigela floribunda (Crimson weigela) — botanical photograph
Crimson weigela (Weigela floribunda)
X

See also

8 related
XI

Explore further

Growing zone
Native to
XII

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