Weigela 'Newport Red'

Vigorous, deciduous shrub of hybrid origin, also known as Weigela 'Vanicek'. Parent species are native to eastern Asia. Deep crimson red, tubular flowers in spring. Mid-green, oval to elliptic leaves with toothed margins, arranged in opposite pairs.

Prefers a sheltered spot in full sun or partial shade and any, well-draining soil. Weigela flowers on previous year's growth, so prune straight after flowering down to a side-shoot. Relatively shallow-rooting. Likes ample moisture and nutrients. Frost-hardy (zones 5-10), but heavy spring frosts may cause some damage.

Weigela 'Newport Red' is easy to grow, and puts on a gorgeous show in spring. Give it sufficient space to show off the spreading, somewhat arching branches. Remember to prune Weigela in time, so that you don't remove the stems that will flower next spring.