Weigela florida alexandra is an ornamental shrub that is native to China. It is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family and is closely related to the weigela genus. The plant has a multi-stemmed growth habit and can reach a height of 3-4m and a width of 2-3m. The leaves are elliptical in shape and are dark green in colour with a paler green underside. The flowers are pink or white in colour and are borne in clusters of 2-5. The blooming period is from late spring to early summer.
Related plant:
Weigela Alexandra
About soil condition, weigela florida alexandra prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil, and does best in full sun to partial shade. It is tolerant of a wide range of soils, from sand to clay, but it will not tolerate wet conditions. You can improve the drainage of heavy soils by adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss. This shrub is also tolerant of urban pollution.
Similar to other Weigela shrubs, the Alexandra prefers full sun, although it will tolerate some partial shade. It grow well in most any type of soil as long as it is well-drained. Although it is drought tolerant once established, it will grow faster if given regular water during extended dry periods. Pruning is not necessary, but if you wish to shape or size the shrub, it is best done immediately after blooming.
The temperature condition for Weigela florida alexandra is cool and moist. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is a fast-growing shrub that can reach up to 6 feet in height. Flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and are pink in color.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 70%. If the air is too dry, the leaves will start to droop and the flowers will wilt. If the air is too wet, the leaves will start to yellow and the plant will be more susceptible to fungal diseases.
Regarding fertilizer, this plant benefits from a slow release fertilizer applied in early spring. For best results, use a fertilizer formulated for flowering shrubs. Once established, weigela is quite drought tolerant. However, during extended periods of drought, the foliage may become scorched and the plant may stop blooming. To avoid this, water deeply and regularly during dry spells. With regards to its root system, weigela has a strong, fibrous root system that allows it to tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. It is not particularly picky about soil type, but prefers well-drained soil that is high in organic matter.
Pruning is an important part of keeping your weigela florida alexandra plant healthy and looking its best. A light pruning in late winter or early spring will encourage new growth and help to keep the plant bushy. You can also prune to shape the plant, or to remove any damaged or diseased branches.
Propagation of weigela florida alexandra can be done through softwood cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches in length and should have several leaves. Stick the cuttings in a pot filled with moistened potting mix and place in a bright, warm spot. Keep the soil moist but not wet and within a few weeks, the cuttings should have rooted and new growth should appear. You can then transplant them into individual pots or into your garden.
Usually, the plant growth rate in full sun areas, with some afternoon shade. They require well-drained, moist soil. Once established, they are relatively drought tolerant. They will benefit from being fertilized in early spring.
Common problems for this kind of plant are leaf spot, powdery mildew, root rot, and stem canker. These problems are caused by different fungi and bacteria. Leaf spot is the most common problem and is caused by the fungi Cercospora and Phyllosticta. Powdery mildew is caused by the fungus Erysiphe and can be a serious problem if not controlled. Root rot is caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas and can be fatal to the plant. Stem canker is caused by the fungus Phomopsis and can also be fatal.
Source:
Weigela | Oklahoma State University
Weigela florida - UDBG
Weigela (Weigela florida)
