Kolkwitzia

Kolkwitzia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caprifoliaceae. It contains a single species, Kolkwitzia amabilis, commonly known as the beauty bush. This deciduous shrub is native to China. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes worldwide due to its prolific and showy spring bloom.

The beauty bush typically grows to a height and width of 6 to 10 feet. Its arching branches are covered in ovate, opposite leaves that are a medium green color. The plant is most renowned for its abundant display of delicate, pink, trumpet-shaped flowers that appear in late spring to early summer. These flowers are borne in clusters along the length of the branches, creating a cascading effect. The blossoms are attractive to pollinators. After flowering, small, bristly fruits develop.

Kolkwitzia amabilis thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is relatively hardy and adaptable to various soil types, although it performs best in fertile loam. The beauty bush is often used as a specimen plant, in shrub borders, or as a flowering hedge. Pruning is best done after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage future blooms. The plant is generally disease and pest resistant.