Loropetalum chinense 'Daruma'
shrub

Daruma Chinese Fringeflower

Loropetalum chinense 'Daruma'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

30 inches

Width

42 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

China, Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Loropetalum chinense, or Chinese Fringeflower, is a broadleaf evergreen shrub in the witch hazel family, valued for its colorful foliage and unique, fringe-like flowers. 'Daruma' is a compact, dwarf variety with a dense, mounding habit. Its foliage is a deep ruby-red to burgundy, providing year-round color, and it produces clusters of vibrant, hot pink, strap-like flowers.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesOffers a powerful combination of vibrant pink flowers and rich burgundy foliage. Its compact, mounding form provides structure and color throughout the year.
Practical UsesIts dwarf size makes it perfect for small gardens, containers, or as a low-maintenance foreground plant in mixed borders. It requires minimal pruning to keep its shape.
Ecological BenefitsThe spring flowers attract bees and other early-season pollinators.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a location with well-drained, acidic soil and full to part sun.
  2. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
  3. Amend soil with compost to improve drainage and fertility.
  4. Set the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
  5. Backfill, water thoroughly, and apply a layer of mulch.
  6. Water regularly for the first year to establish a deep root system.

Pro Tip

For the best foliage color, provide at least 6 hours of direct sun; in shadier spots, the leaves may turn more greenish-bronze.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide supplemental water during extended dry periods.
  • Plant in acidic soil for best performance.
  • Prune after flowering to encourage dense growth.

Don't

  • Do not plant in heavy, waterlogged clay soil.
  • Avoid alkaline soils, which can cause chlorosis (yellowing leaves).
  • Don't perform heavy pruning late in the season.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Compact border or low hedgeColorful accent in foundation plantingsExcellent for mass planting on slopes

Companion Plants

Abelia 'Kaleidoscope' Carex 'Evergold' Nandina 'Firepower' Juniperus procumbens 'Nana' Spiraea japonica 'Goldmound'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Daruma Chinese Fringeflower questions

What zones can Daruma Chinese Fringeflower grow in?

Daruma Chinese Fringeflower 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 Daruma Chinese Fringeflower deer resistant?

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

When does Daruma Chinese Fringeflower bloom?

Daruma Chinese Fringeflower typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Daruma Chinese Fringeflower need full sun?

Daruma Chinese Fringeflower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Daruma Chinese Fringeflower drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Daruma Chinese Fringeflower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Daruma Chinese Fringeflower with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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