Noteworthy CharacteristicsThis plant and its hybrids attract butterflies and bees greatly and are valuable shrubs for town and suburban gardens and for seaside planting. Listed as a weed in some parts of the U.S. and Canada.

CareCut back hard in spring. Hardy below Zone 6, but most aerial portions will winter kill and need to be hard pruned in spring.

PropagationCuttings that are made from half-ripe or semi-woody side shoots, 5 or 6 inches long, can be inserted in a closed cold frame, or outside under a hand light in July or early August.

ProblemsCapsid bug, caterpillars, weevils, mullein moth and spider mites. Fungal leaf spot and dieback are possible.