Crimson weigela
Weigela floribundafam. Rubiaceae
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Pl. 9A40 — Weigela floribunda
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IOverview
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. This versatile plant combines ornamental appeal with culinary utility in the garden.
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).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Crimson weigela thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. This shrub grows up to 2.5 meters tall and can be propagated through cuttings. The edible parts include the leaves, which can add a unique flavor to culinary creations.
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
What you'll need
Crimson weigela plants or seeds, potting soil, containers if needed, and gardening tools.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall before the first freeze.
- 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
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants in the spring, or sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight for a few days after planting.
- 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
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to remove dead wood and encourage new growth; no edible parts are harvested.
VIEdible & utility
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
VIIDistribution
1 native · 5 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 5 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 1 native· 5 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Bulgaria
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
Broader regions
introduced:Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Masachusettes
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rubiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rubiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 9a404695-28f6-4f06-a7de-ebf0b8b6f6ae
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