Abeliophyllum - White Forsythia
(Abeliophyll'um)
- Shrub
- Zones 5 us 6a Can Go to zones
DESCRIPTION: This group includes a single deciduous shrub. A. distichum, also known as White Forsythia, is native to Korea. It grows slowly with thin branches and only grows to a maximum of 3 feet. The branches contain leaves that are opposing and may change color to purple in the fall. In spring it shows a white flower tinted with pink that only reaches about a ½” in diameter. These shrubs grow in small groups and there best growing season is from late winter through early spring. Cut sprays will open nicely inside.
POTTING: This plant grows best in a loamy soil although it will do well in most any well drained soil. If one plants it near a warm, sheltered wall it will do very well. Although very hardy this plant will not do well unless it has hot sun. Be wary of late frosts as they can do the most harm to the flowers, so protect them then. Best to prune every 4 to 5 years right after flowering by cutting out the older wood.
PROPAGATION: Early spring is the best time to layer the lower branches. In July, using a closed frame, you may plant cuttings 3-4 inches in sandy well drained soil for best results.
VARIETIES
A. distichum
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