lerodendrum trichotomum var. fargesii Farges' glorybower, harlequin glorybower, bagflower

Farges' glorybower is a Chinese selection of this beautiful shrub or small tree from Asia. Unlike most of its relatives from tropical and subtropical regions this glorybower is hardy in mild parts of continental climate. It is cultivated as a highly ornamental plant that is quite rare in Europe. It makes large, up to 20 cm long, obovate leaves with a long tip. They are deep green in rich soils of slightly lower (acidic) pH, deciduous, and do not make a significant colour change in autumn.

Farges' variety produces burgundy red young leaves and profusion of small, creamy white, very fragrant, salverform flowers in terminal cymes, usually from late August. They are followed by cyan blue fruit in bright pink calyxes in September and October provided the summer was long and warm. Awarded AGM (Award of Garden Merit) by RHS.

Farges' glorybower grows fast until it reaches about two meters tall in height when it slows down and thickens the horizontal canopy (if grown as a tree) or tiered branches (on shrubs) which makes the desired effect. Mature plants have an almost flat canopy like those on silk trees. This tree resembles catalpa (Indian bean tree) but is much smaller and will fit a small front yard. Grow it in humus-rich, well-drained but constantly moist soil in full sun, protected from harsh, cutting winds in winter. Mulch well. Hardy to about -23°C (USDA zone 6).

Last update 06-01-2017