The Chinese Fringe-Flower (Loropetalum chinense) is a plant that I had not heard of until recently. Introduced in the US in the early 1990's, this shrub with purple leaves has fringy flowers that have been described as hot pink. It blooms in late winter to early spring and sporadically throughout the summer. It can be transplanted year round.
The height is 6-15 feet, and it spreads 8-10 feet. In an article that I read about using woody ornamentals as cut flowers, it was suggested that the Loropetalum branches could be cut and used in the home and forced for early bloom.
There is an excellent specimen in the IDEA Garden, which is located in the Tyler Rose Garden. The color of the bloom is really outstanding.
Recently I bought some of these plants without realizing how big they will become. I'm glad that I have them, but I think I will move them to a more appropriate location.
Mary Davis, Smith County Master Gardener
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