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Purple leaved Weigela wins award 

 Weigela is an old-fashioned shrub noted for its spectacular spring burst of pink or red trumpet-like flowers. Unfortunately it also has the reputation for having only one season of garden interest. After its finished blooming, it fades into obscurity.

That's no longer the case with the introduction of Wine & Roses, the first Weigela with dark purple leaves, and the first to ever win the Pennsylvania Horticulture Society’s coveted Gold Medal Award. This is not your grandmothers Weigela. It took nearly twenty years for the breeder Herman Geers of The Netherlands, to develop the plant. His efforts proved worthwhile for Wine & Roses shines from spring to fall by combining colorful foliage and loads of vivid pink flowers.

One of the most interesting aspects of this new plant is how it's being used in Europe. The dark purple foliage is so attractive, its most common use is as a cut branch in flower bouquets. European floral designers have discovered that the colorful Wine & Roses is great when combined with traditional cut flowers like roses, baby's breath and chrysanthemums. The leaves remain fresh and attractive long past any flower and the rich purple color creates unique, beautiful flower bouquets.

 In the garden or in the vase, Wine & Roses easily combines most perennials. Plant Wine & Roses with black eyed susan, shasta daisy, Siberian iris, globe thistle, or Russian sage to create simple yet breathtaking combinations.     

Wine & Roses is an easy growing plant with no serious pest problems or cultural requirements. It reaches a height of 3-5 feet. Like many perennials, a light shearing after it blooms in mid-spring will often be rewarded with a second bloom. To achieve it's best foliage color it's essential to plant Wine & Roses in full sun. Sunlight brings out the dark pigments that gives Wine and Roses it rich purple leaf color.

It can be used as a hedge, or in a shrub or perennial border to provide season long color. It’s adored by hummingbirds which are naturally attracted to funnel shaped flowers, making it a perfect choice for a hummingbird garden.

For more information about Wine & Roses, a Pennsylvania Horticulture Society Gold Medal winner, and other award winning new plants, visit your local garden center or the web site at www.ColorChoicePlants.com