Weigela – Weigela rosea

**Weigela – Weigela rosea Variety Description**

Weigela rosea, commonly known as the Weigela or Pink Weigela, is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family and belongs to the group of stunning flowering shrubs. This ornamental shrub is popular in gardens and landscape projects due to its impressive flowering and elegant appearance. The Weigela is characterized by its lush green foliage and special pink flowers, which bloom abundantly in spring and summer. Below, we will provide a detailed overview of the characteristics, requirements, and uses of the Weigela.

### Appearance
Weigela rosea is a deciduous shrub that typically grows 1 to 2 meters high. The plant's growth habit is branching, resulting in a thick, bushy appearance. The leaves are oval-shaped and dark green, providing a beautiful backdrop for the flowers. The flowers are generally 3–5 cm long, tubular in shape, and vibrant pink with a yellow center. Blooming starts in early spring and continues into the summer months, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

### Site and Soil Requirements
The Weigela is a sun-loving plant that thrives best in sunny locations. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight for abundant blooming. Weigela rosea adapts well to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It grows best in well-drained, nutrient-rich soils, and the ideal pH range for the soil is between 6.0 and 7.0.

### Care
Weigela rosea requires relatively low maintenance, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. The plant needs regular watering during the blooming season, especially in dry periods, but established specimens can tolerate drier conditions well. Autumn pruning is recommended to promote denser growth. During pruning, it is wise to remove any diseased or dead branches to keep the plant healthy.

### Resistance
The Weigela is quite resistant to common pests and diseases, such as powdery mildew and aphids. Proper growing conditions, such as good drainage and air circulation, can help minimize the risk of diseases. The plant is frost-resistant, which is particularly important in cooler climates, requiring minimal winterizing preparations.

### Use Cases
Weigela rosea can be widely used in landscape design. It is excellent for creating hedges, planting in mixed flower beds, or decorating rock gardens. Additionally, since the flowers bloom early, it is an ideal choice for adding color to spring gardens. A further advantage is that it attracts pollinators during its flowering period, thereby supporting the surrounding ecosystem.

### Summary
Weigela rosea, or the Weigela, is an impressive ornamental plant that can enhance any garden with its rich flowering and attractive appearance. Its easy care and adaptability make it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels, making it a valuable addition to any landscape.