A distant cousin to Coral Bells, this is a woodland treasure native to China. It forms a low mound of large, bold maple-shaped leaves, bronze-green in spring, later becoming deep green with stunning crimson tips. Small white bell-shaped flowers appear in spring before the leaves. Must have an evenly moist, rich woodland soil. Deciduous in winter. Clumps slowly spread to form a small patch, which may be divided carefully in the spring every 4 years or so. Combines beautifully with Hakonechloa, the Japanese Woodland Grass. Ideal for edging, and also gorgeous in containers. May prove to be hardy to Zone 3 or colder. Apparently ‘Karasuba’ is the original and therefore correct Japanese cultivar name, but this plant is often sold as ‘Crimson Fans'.
The next time you are buying perennials please look for our helpful labels and blue pots, and remember "The best perennials come out of the blue"!
