Weigela coraeensis

Weigela coraeensis, or Japanese weigela, is a deciduous shrub. It belongs to the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae. Its native range lies in east-central Honshu, Japan. Plants For A Future also records it near Japanese shores. It grows in a temperate climate. The RHS lists Weigela grandiflora as a synonym. Its upright branches spread out to form a bushy plant.

In gardens, it reaches about 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres] tall and wide. The RHS description gives a height of about 11.5 feet [3.5 metres]. Allow room for its spread when placing it in a border. It takes around five to ten years to reach full size. The oval leaves have pointed tips and toothed edges. Their surfaces shine, and fine hairs line the leaf veins. The plant sheds its leaves each year.

Flowers appear in early summer, in groups of two to eight. These clusters grow from the leaf axils. Each bloom has a bell shape. Flowers open white or pale pink, then turn deep carmine red. This colour change gives the flowering display its main interest. The RHS suggests it for flower beds and borders. It also suits cottage gardens, city gardens, and courtyards. Coastal gardens offer another setting, while woodland edges provide options with some shade.

Grow it in fertile soil that drains well. It accepts chalk, clay, loam, and sand. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. Choose full sun or partial shade. The RHS lists both moist, well-drained soil and well-drained soil. It accepts exposed sites as well as sheltered ones. The RHS rates its cold hardiness as H6. Plants For A Future gives USDA zones 5–9. Prune after flowering. Take softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-hardwood cuttings in midsummer. Hardwood cuttings provide another option in autumn and winter.

Leaf and bud eelworm may affect this shrub. Honey fungus is another possible problem. Plants For A Future records cooked young leaves as edible. It describes them as emergency food rather than a normal crop. That source reports no known hazards, but this does not prove safety for every use. It lists no known medicinal uses or other practical uses. It also records no weed potential.