This plant is known as fringe flower, Chinese fringe flower, and Chinese witch hazel. The species was introduced to America in 1880 from China. It is also native to one area of Japan.

A member of the witch hazel family, fringe flower is related to the witch hazels. This might not be the most well known shrub, but it happens to be a perfect choice for Southern gardens. It is hardy in zones seven through nine.

This was my favorite shrub, but I moved from a zone seven garden to zone six where this is not hardy.

In the North, this shrub thrives in greenhouses. Gardeners will appreciate this easy to grow plant that has proven to be tough as nails. It is quite tolerant of heat and drought.

Fringe flower does well in sun and deep shade in most areas. However, in very warm climates, it does best in part shade.

This adapts to a range of pH levels from acid to neutral. In alkaline soils, the plant can become chlorotic. A well drained, organic, moist soil is preferred. Easy to transplant when grown in containers, this has a fast growth rate.

The plant can reach six feet in height within five years or so from planting time. Gardeners will appreciate the fact that this is usually free of pests and diseases. It requires a minimum of pruning. At the same time, the plant can be trained as an espalier and as a tree.

Fringe flower can be grown on its own roots. It can also be grafted onto witch hazel rootstock. The plant can be propagated from cuttings.

Moderate to regular watering is adequate. If necessary, this can withstand dry soils.

Fringe flower is grown both for the lovely flowers as well as the attractive evergreen foliage. This is a versatile plant in the landscape. It can be used for foundation plantings, either in groups or singly, and as a specimen plant. This can also serve as an understory plant, and used as screens, and in mixed borders.

Fringe flower plants are readily available at local nurseries and garden centers in the South. In recent years, a large number of varieties have been released. These often have colorful foliage with purple and burgundy being two common colors.

In general, many of the varieties have blossoms in varying shades of pink. The Southern Living brand of plants has a number of these newer varieties.

For those with small gardens, there are even dwarf varieties. Suzanne fringe flower is an example. This is only about three to four feet in height, about half the size of the species plant.