What Are the Different Types of Weigela Plant

Weigela is a popular flowering shrub that is native to East Asia. Known for its vibrant and showy flowers, weigela plants are a favorite among gardeners looking to add color and beauty to their landscapes. There are several different types of weigela plants, each with its own unique characteristics and growing requirements. In this article, we will explore some of the most common types of weigela plants and discover what makes them special.

1. Weigela florida

Weigela florida is perhaps the most well-known and widely cultivated type of weigela plant. Native to China, Korea, and Japan, this deciduous shrub features arching branches and oval-shaped leaves. The flowers of Weigela florida are trumpet-shaped and come in a variety of colors including pink, red, purple, and white. They typically bloom in late spring and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

One popular cultivar of Weigela florida is ‘Bristol Ruby.’ This variety has deep red flowers that stand out against its dark green foliage. Another noteworthy cultivar is ‘Variegata,’ which has green leaves with creamy-white margins. ‘Variegata’ adds an interesting contrast to any garden or landscape.

2. Weigela middendorffiana

Weigela middendorffiana, also known as yellow weigela or golden weigela, is a species of weigela that is native to Russia and China. Unlike other types of weigela plants, it produces yellow flowers instead of the more commonly seen pink or red blooms.

Yellow weigela is a compact shrub with arching branches and ovate leaves. The bright yellow flowers appear in late spring or early summer and last for several weeks. This type of weigela is less common in gardens compared to Weigela florida but is still sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

3. Weigela praecox

Weigela praecox, commonly known as early-flowering weigela, is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan. As its name suggests, this type of weigela blooms earlier in the season compared to other varieties. Its trumpet-shaped flowers are typically pink or purple and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

One popular cultivar of Weigela praecox is ‘Nana Variegata.’ This variety has variegated leaves with green centers and creamy-white margins. ‘Nana Variegata’ is a compact shrub that can be grown in containers or used as a low hedge.

4. Weigela florida ‘Alexandra’

Weigela florida ‘Alexandra’ is a stunning cultivar of Weigela florida that features deep red flowers with a hint of purple. The flowers bloom profusely in late spring and are highly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies. This variety is known for its compact growth habit, making it suitable for smaller gardens or containers.

‘Alexandra’ is also appreciated for its colorful foliage. The leaves emerge in spring with a deep purple hue and gradually transition to dark green as the season progresses. This contrast between the foliage and the vibrant flowers makes ‘Alexandra’ a standout plant in any garden.

5. Weigela florida ‘Java Red’

Another notable cultivar of Weigela florida is ‘Java Red.’ This variety produces deep crimson-red flowers that create a striking display against its dark green foliage. The flowers bloom in late spring and are often described as being velvety in texture.

‘Java Red’ is loved for its vigorous growth habit, making it an excellent choice for creating hedges or screening. It can also be trained into a small tree with proper pruning. This cultivar is highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, making it suitable for various garden settings.

6. Weigela florida ‘Pink Poppet’

Weigela florida ‘Pink Poppet’ is a compact and dwarf cultivar of Weigela florida. This variety reaches a maximum height of only 2 feet, making it perfect for small gardens or containers. ‘Pink Poppet’ produces an abundance of pink flowers in late spring or early summer, creating a beautiful and eye-catching display.

The small size of this cultivar does not diminish its impact. ‘Pink Poppet’ is known for its long-lasting flowers, which persist for several weeks. Its compact growth habit and attractive flowers make it an ideal choice for borders, rock gardens, or even as a groundcover.

Conclusion

Weigela plants are an excellent addition to any garden or landscape. With their vibrant flowers and attractive foliage, they bring color and beauty to outdoor spaces. Whether you prefer the classic Weigela florida or the unique yellow blooms of Weigela middendorffiana, there is a weigela plant that will suit your preferences and growing conditions. Explore the different types of weigela plants mentioned in this article and create a stunning display of colors in your own garden.