This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: any well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: slow
• Flowering period: May to June
• Hardiness: fully hardy


A strong-growing large shrub or small tree producing cream flowers in summer followed by pale pink four-ribbed fruit with black seeds and orange arils. Shiny, dark green, toothed leaves turn a shade of crimson-burgundy in autumn. ‘Ruby Wine’ makes for a standalone or back of border specimen plant to warm the senses during the cooler season.


• Garden care: While the plant is dormant in late-winter or early-spring remove any misplaced or crossing branches and older stems to achieve an open, permanent framework. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant.