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Key characteristics

Family: Ericaceae
Height: 6 to 10 feet
Width: 4 to 6 feet
Flower color: Deep red to reddish pink bell-shaped flowers
Foliage color: Medium green oval leaves often turning brilliant shades of red orange and yellow in fall
Bloom time: Late spring, often May to June
Light: Partial shade to light full sun
Water: Average moist well drained soil
Maintenance: Low; prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA zones 5 to 8
Wildlife: Bees and other pollinating insects

Shrubs

Enkianthus cernuus var. rubens

Drooping Red Enkianthus

Enkianthus cernuus var. rubens produces clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers in late spring, the pendent blooms opening in warm rose-red tones with softly flared tips. The blossoms hang in loose groups along the branches as fresh foliage emerges. Narrow oval leaves unfold in bright green and form a graceful canopy through the growing season, later developing glowing shades of red, orange, and gold in autumn.

Light

Partial shade to light full sun

Water

Average moist well drained soil

Bloom time

Late spring, often May to June

Find this plant

Works well in

Shade Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Under Trees
Pathways & Walkways

Companion plants

Yew · Oregon grape · Corydalis · Hosta · Anemone · Foamflower

Design tip

The pendant red flowers are most effective where they can be seen from slightly below, making this shrub a good choice beside a gently descending path or raised planting. Its brilliant red, orange, and gold autumn foliage then gives the same location an entirely different character later in the year.