Raised at Westonbirt Arboretum around 1838 this variety has become a long standing favourite for its intense stem colour in the winter garden. Very easy to grow with striking red stems which are the main feature of this much used plant. It is important to prune most of the stems back to near ground level on mature plants to ensure a plentiful supply of new stems. The young stem have the best colour. In addition, it produces good autumn colour and thrives in wet soil. Can be used anywhere but probably look at their best planted together with the Yellow and Vermilion stem varieties (flaveramea and Midwinter Fire). Easy to grow in full sun to semi shade and almost any soil. This plant can be used in a mixed planting, as a central specimen plant or in a container. If planting in a pot or other container. Use a good quality compost. Ensure you feed regularly as a hungry plant is a poor performer. We recommend Osmoscote pro 8-9 month applied in the early spring. One application gives all the nutrients the plant requires for the whole year.
