How to grow Beauty Bush in the UK
Kolkwitzia amabilis
Beauty Bush (Kolkwitzia amabilis) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. 'Pink Cloud' is the popular cultivar. Spectacular when smothered in pink. This guide covers when and how to sow Beauty Bush, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Beauty Bush
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct Plant | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Most well-drained soils with added organic matter
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or part shade depending on species
- Sowing depth
- Plant so the rootball top sits level with the soil
- Spacing
- Allow for mature spread
- Sowing
- Plant from containers spring or autumn; water in well
- Growing
- Water through the first two summers; mulch annually
- Harvest & upkeep
- Prune to shape after flowering; remove dead/crossing wood
- Watch for
- Generally tough; watch aphids and powdery mildew
Companion planting for Beauty Bush
No specific companion notes for this plant.
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Beauty Bush FAQs
How much sun does Beauty Bush need?
Beauty Bush prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When should I plant Beauty Bush in the UK?
In the UK, plant Beauty Bush in October. Planting in this window gives the roots time to establish before the plant is asked to grow away.
Is Beauty Bush easy to grow?
Moderate. 'Pink Cloud' is the popular cultivar. Spectacular when smothered in pink.