Beauty bush - Kolkwitzia amabilis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Beauty bush

Beauty bush (Kolkwitzia amabilis) is a deciduous shrub native to Eastern China. It blooms in middle to late spring, producing a great amount of lovely and fragrant small flowers. Beauty bush grows best in the shade and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Beauty bush (Kolkwitzia amabilis)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

2.5 m

Plant Height

2.5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Beauty bush

Distribution of Beauty bush

Distribution Map

Beauty bush is native to China. It is found at the edge of forests and in disturbed habitats. It has been introduced to parts of Europe, and some US states. Beauty bush is listed as potentially invasive in New Jersey.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Beauty bush is often used as a standout plant in lawns, or massed and pruned into screens and hedges in ornamental and cottage gardens. It can tolerate aggressive pruning for this purpose, although it will then not flower the next year. It is best planted in sunny locations. Dogwoods and fall-fruiting viburnums make great companions visually and to attract birds.

Symbolism

Beauty and grace

Name Story

Beauty bush: The plant lives up to its common name, beauty bush in spring when it is full of pink, bell-shaped flowers. Arching stems and dark green foliage turn yellowish-green during fall. During the rest of the season, it offers little in terms of ornamental appeal.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Beauty bush, including the following common varieties :

Beauty bush 'Pink Cloud'

Care Guide for Beauty bush

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from moderate climates, beauty bush prefers evenly moist soil and displays moderate drought tolerance once established. Watering should occur every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to partially dry. As an ornamental outdoor plant, beauty bush benefits from seasonal rainfall during its active growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal health, beauty bush needs balanced fertilizers in spring, such as a 10-10-10 formula. Early-season high-nitrogen fertilizers promote growth, but avoid over-fertilization to prevent lush foliage at the expense of blooms. Reduce fertilization after flowering to limit late growth that may suffer in winter.

Pruning: Beauty bush has arching branches and pink, bell-shaped flowers. Prune in early spring to remove dead wood and thin older branches for better growth. Rejuvenation pruning every 3-5 years fosters a fuller shape, enhancing aesthetics, plant health, and flowering while minimizing disease risks.

Propagation: Beauty bush propagates best through cutting or layering in autumn and winter. While moderately challenging, successful propagation is indicated by new shoot growth. Care must be taken to avoid damaging the stems during this process.

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Images of Beauty bush

Distribution of Beauty bush

Culture

Cultivars

Care Guide for Beauty bush

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