Species

Loropetalum chinenseChinese Fringe Flower

18 other cultivars

shrub

Red Chocolate Chinese Fringe Flower

Loropetalum chinense 'Red Chocolate'

The Story

Plant Bio

Loropetalum chinense, or Chinese Fringe Flower, is a broadleaf evergreen shrub in the witch hazel family, admired for its delicate, strap-like flowers and often colorful foliage. It is a versatile and popular landscape plant in warmer climates.

'Red Chocolate', also sold as Sizzling Pink, is distinguished by its deep, chocolate-maroon foliage that holds its color exceptionally well throughout the season. This dark foliage creates a stunning backdrop for its profuse, electric-pink fringe flowers.

Uses & Benefits:

The rich, chocolate-burgundy foliage provides a dramatic, season-long color statement that sets it apart in the landscape. When it erupts in a cloud of vibrant pink flowers in late winter, the contrast is simply stunning.

This Loropetalum's dense, evergreen nature makes it an effective choice for creating privacy hedges or screens that are far more interesting than a simple green wall. It is also deer resistant.

Blooming very early in the season, it provides a crucial first source of nectar for pollinators like bees that are emerging from winter dormancy, helping to support local ecosystems at a critical time.

SpeciesLoropetalum chinenseChinese Fringe Flower

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

84 inches

Width

66 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

China, Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late winter – Mid-spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with full sun and well-drained, acidic soil
Dig a planting hole twice as wide as the container
Gently loosen the root ball before placing it in the hole
Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil
Backfill with native soil, firming it gently
Water deeply after planting and apply a 2-inch layer of mulch

Pro Tip

For the deepest, richest foliage color, provide at least six hours of direct sun. In shadier conditions, the leaves may take on a greener cast.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent water until the plant is well-established
Plant in acidic soil to prevent leaf yellowing (chlorosis)
Give it plenty of sun for the best foliage color
Prune after flowering to maintain a compact shape

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, waterlogged soil
Avoid alkaline soils; amend if necessary
Don't let the plant dry out completely, especially in summer heat
Avoid shearing into a formal shape, which spoils its natural grace

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

High-impact colorful informal hedgeDramatic specimen plant for year-round colorRichly colored anchor in a mixed border

Companion Plants

Abelia 'Kaleidoscope'Nandina 'Firepower'Carex 'Everillo'Lagerstroemia 'Pocomoke'Juniperus conferta 'Blue Pacific'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Chocolate Chinese Fringe Flower questions

What zones can Red Chocolate Chinese Fringe Flower grow in?

Red Chocolate Chinese Fringe Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Red Chocolate Chinese Fringe Flower deer resistant?

Yes — Red Chocolate Chinese Fringe Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Red Chocolate Chinese Fringe Flower bloom?

Red Chocolate Chinese Fringe Flower typically blooms in late winter through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Red Chocolate Chinese Fringe Flower need full sun?

Red Chocolate Chinese Fringe Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.