Korean Forsythia Duo

This Abeliophyllum distichum duo is ideal for bringing the garden to life in February-March. These deciduous shrubs with a bushy habit, reaching approximately 1.50m in all directions, are less well-known than our yellow forsythias. They are equally charming with their delicate flowers in white and pink and their colourful foliage in autumn. Easy to grow and very hardy, these shrubs adapt to a wide range of soils and climates. Plant them in a shrub border or in a small flowering hedge.

The duo consists of:

x 1 Abeliophyllum distichum: also known as Korean white forsythia. Its slightly scented white flowers appear before the leaves, between February and March.

x 1 Abeliophyllum distichum 'Roseum': this is the Korean pink forsythia. It produces pale pink flowers that bloom at the same time as the white variety, creating a pastel harmony.

These Korean forsythias should be planted in early spring or October. They can be used in a shrub border, a small hedge, or even a large pot. You can train them against a wall, where they will thrive. Choose a sunny or semi-shaded location, sheltered from cold winds. Grow them in any well-drained, moist to dry soil.

Plant the Abeliophyllum distichum 'Roseum' in front of the white variety to enhance its pink flowering. Leave an 80cm spacing between each plant. Aim for approximately 3 plants per square metre for optimal density.

This Abeliophyllum distichum duo pairs perfectly with shrubs such as Viburnum bodnantense 'Dawn', Mahonia aquifolium, and Japanese quince trees. Viburnum bodnantense, with its highly fragrant pink flowers, should be planted in the background due to its taller stature. Mahonia, with its evergreen leaves and yellow flowers, creates an interesting contrast with the white and pink blooms. Japanese quince trees offer flowers in various colours depending on the variety and bloom just after Abeliophyllum distichum.