Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire'

Escallonia rubra 'Crimson Spire' is a medium-sized, evergreen shrub with a broad shape. The flowers are dark pink, tubular and fragrant. The flowering period is quite long, namely from June to August with sometimes a re-flowering in the autumn. Escallonia is only moderately hardy and likes a well-sheltered position in full sun and partial shade. The plant grows well in neutral or acidic soil, soil that is too calcareous should be avoided. It is best to prune solitary plants in the months of March or April. Escallonia 'c.f. Ball' is a good coastal plant, attracts butterflies and bees and is often planted as a hedge.