Variegated Weigela Weigela 'Kosteriana Variegata' (v)
ABOUT
Weigela 'Kosteriana Variegata' is a visually captivating shrub known for its striking foliage and lovely flowers. The leaves of this Weigela variety are particularly notable for their variegation. The foliage displays a dynamic contrast, with creamy white edges framing a soft green center. The borders of the leaves are irregular, sometimes giving the impression that each leaf has been carefully dipped in paint. As for the blooms, the shrub produces clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers that are a vivid hue of pink. These flowers are not only beautiful to look at but also attract a variety of pollinators, including hummingbirds and bees. The blossoms typically appear in late spring and may continue sporadically throughout the summer, adding bursts of color to the landscape. The overall growth habit of Weigela 'Kosteriana Variegata' is rounded, creating a bushy appearance that is both lush and full. The branches arch gracefully, with the green and white leaves providing a pleasing backdrop for the pink flowers that dangle along the lengths of the stems. The contrast between the variegated leaves and the pink blooms makes this shrub a standout choice for gardeners looking to add both visual interest and a touch of whimsy to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Caprifoliaceae.
Synonyms
Variegated Weigela, Variegated Koster Weigela.
Common names
Weigela florida 'Variegata', Weigela 'Florida Variegata', Weigela 'Foliis Variegatis'.
ToxicityTo humans
Weigela is not considered toxic to humans. Therefore, ingesting parts of the Weigela plant typically does not result in poisoning or harmful symptoms. However, it is generally advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants due to the potential presence of pesticides and other chemicals used in gardening.
To pets
Weigela is not considered toxic to pets. It is not known to cause poisoning or adverse health effects if pets ingest parts of this plant. As with humans, it is still generally recommended to prevent pets from consuming ornamental plants to avoid possible digestive upset or reactions to any chemicals that may be on the plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Weigela 'Kosteriana Variegata' has variegated leaves, which add visual interest to gardens with its green and white pattern.
- Spring Flowering: It produces pink trumpet-shaped flowers in the spring that offer aesthetic appeal.
- Wildlife Support: The flowers provide nectar for pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds, supporting biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance: This variety requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Hardy: It is resilient to a variety of climatic conditions and can withstand cold temperatures, making it a robust addition to a garden.
- Border Planting: Due to its compact size and decorative leaves, it serves well as a border or edging plant.
- Cultural Significance: It can be used in thematic garden designs, representing an interest in variegated or unique plant varieties.
- Multipurpose: Suitable for containers, mixed borders, and as a standalone specimen, offering versatile garden uses.
- Seasonal Interest: Its foliage, flowers, and growth habit provide changing interest throughout the growing season.
- Privacy: When planted in groups, it can form a dense shrubbery that offers a level of privacy.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hedging and Privacy: Weigela can be planted in a row to create an informal, flowering hedge that adds privacy and aesthetic appeal to garden spaces.
- Topiary Art: With regular pruning, Weigela can be shaped into decorative forms, making it a unique option for topiary enthusiasts.
- Wildlife Habitat: Weigela attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, providing a habitat and food source for these beneficial creatures.
- Seasonal Interest: Weigela's variegated foliage offers visual interest in the garden across multiple seasons, even when not in bloom.
- Erosion Control: Planting Weigela on slopes can help prevent soil erosion thanks to its root system that stabilizes the ground.
- Theme Gardens: Due to its colorful blooms and foliage, Weigela can be used in thematic garden designs, such as a pink or white color-themed garden.
- Container Gardening: Dwarf varieties of Weigela can be planted in containers, which add color and life to balconies and patios.
- Outdoor Events Décor: Weigela can be incorporated into outdoor event spaces, providing a natural and vibrant backdrop for weddings and parties.
- Photography: The striking appearance of Weigela makes it an excellent subject for garden photography, capturing the essence of spring and early summer.
- Bonsai: With careful pruning and training, some skilled gardeners may use Weigela for creating bonsai plants, offering a unique challenge to bonsai enthusiasts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Weigela is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Weigela is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Grace: The weeping form and delicate flowers of the Weigela plant signify grace and an easy-going elegance in the language of plants.
- Nostalgia: Weigela has a vintage charm that is often associated with memories of the past and traditional gardens, symbolizing a sense of nostalgia.
- Prosperity: The abundant spring bloom of Weigela can symbolize prosperity and an overflowing abundance.
- Romantic Love: With their trumpet-like flowers, Weigela plants are sometimes considered to represent feelings of romantic love and attraction.
- Welcoming: Weigela's vibrant and inviting display makes it a symbol of hospitality, welcoming everyone with its open blooms.
WaterVariegated Weigela should be watered deeply once a week, applying approximately 1 gallon of water for each inch of the plant's stem diameter at ground level. During the growing season, increase watering frequency to twice a week if you notice the soil drying out rapidly, especially in hot or windy weather. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant begins to go dormant and further cut back in the winter to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
LightVariegated Weigela thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The optimal spot for planting Variegated Weigela is an area where it is exposed to morning sunlight and receives some shade in the hot afternoon, to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureVariegated Weigela is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures but performs best when the average temperature is between 60°F and 75°F. It can tolerate minimum winter temperatures down to about -20°F. Avoid placing it in areas that experience drastic temperature swings or in spots that are prone to late frosts.
PruningPrune Variegated Weigela immediately after it finishes blooming, usually in late spring or early summer, to shape the plant and remove any dead or broken branches. This timing allows the plant to set buds for the next year's flowers. Prune sparingly, as excessive cutting can reduce the number of blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilVariegated Weigela thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A mix containing loam, compost, and peat moss can enhance nutrient content and drainage, catering to the plant's needs.
RepottingVariegated Weigela, being a shrub, is commonly planted outdoors and does not require repotting. When planted in containers, repot once it outgrows the pot, approximately every 2-3 years.
Humidity & MistingVariegated Weigela is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels outdoors. It does not have specific humidity requirements, making it versatile in various climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, moderate watering, and room to grow.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, well-draining soil, and space to expand.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleWeigela 'Kosteriana Variegata' (v), commonly known as Variegated Weigela, starts its life cycle as a seed, which after germination in favorable conditions develops into a seedling with characteristic variegated leaves. As the seedling matures, it enters a vegetative stage, growing stems and foliage and establishing a root system. During the spring to early summer, the Variegated Weigela enters its flowering stage, displaying tubular pink to red blooms that attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. After pollination, the flowers give way to small, inconspicuous seed capsules that eventually release seeds, continuing the reproductive cycle. Throughout the growing season, the shrub undergoes periods of growth, with the most vigorous development in the spring. As a deciduous shrub, it experiences a stage of dormancy in winter when the leaves drop, allowing it to conserve energy and survive cold temperatures until the cycle recommences with new growth in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Weigela 'Kosteriana Variegata', commonly known as Variegated Weigela, is typically propagated by softwood cuttings taken in late spring to early summer. To accomplish this, select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a 4 to 6 inch section (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters), just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring at least one or two nodes are buried where roots can form. The cutting should be kept in a humid environment with indirect light until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks. Once the cutting has established a decent root system, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.
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