Vinho Verde™ Weigela

With lime green leaves surrounded by a bold, dark margin, Vinho Verde Weigela was a hit in its trial stages. Now, this new weigela variety is available to buy and fill any landscape with two-toned green leaves and burgundy spring flowers. The variegated leaves are reminiscent of a crisp wine, and the unique name is based on a special wine from Portugal. The shrubs offer a colorful splash on a tidy, mounded shrub to suit nearly any landscaping style. At maturity, this weigela will reach 3 to 5 feet high and around. Although its flowers eventually fall off in winter, the plant delivers color through fall and leaves return in spring in zones 5 through 8. Its an easy-care shrub that packs plenty of variegated leaves to frame an entryway, stand out under a window, or serve as a backdrop for lower-growing flowering plants. Vinho Verde Weigela Care Being deer resistant adds to Vinho Verde Weigelas versatility. Give it plenty of sun (at least 6 hours each day) to achieve the lime green/nearly black foliage effect. Choose a spot with soil that drains well and has moderately acidic to average pH. When planting, add a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help suppress weeds and keep its roots cool and moist in summer heat. Weigelas are notoriously easy-care shrubs, and this new sport is no exception. Prune out dead or damaged branches if needed in spring, and prune to maintain its rounded shape after spring flowers fade. Then, just enjoy it by giving it consistent water when needed (only during dry periods after the first season) and fertilize once in spring with a slow-release, granular formula. Vinho Verde Weigela Spacing If planting a border or hedge with Vinho Verde Weigelas, be sure to consider their mature size and place the shrubs no closer than 3 feet apart.