description:
Large shrub or small tree of compact habit. Goblet-shaped, dark reddish purple flowers, paler inside, freely produced from late spring to early summer and often intermittently repeat flowering until autumn.

cultivation:
Moist, reasonably fertile, humus-rich, acid to neutral soil. Will thrive in heavy clay and tolerant of atmospheric pollution. Best in a sheltered position in sun or part shade.
If required, prune unwanted or crossing branches when dormant in autumn or late winter to very early spring.

other notes:
Introduced from Japan by J.G. Vietch in 1861.
RHS AGM.