About Loropetalum chinense (R.Br.) Oliv.
Loropetalum chinense (R.Br.) Oliv. is an evergreen plant, with branches that grow in distinct horizontal layers. Its leaves are alternately arranged along branches, have an ovate shape, measure 2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) in length and up to 2.5 cm (1 inch) in width, and have a slightly abrasive texture.
For cultivation, this species grows best in fertile, slightly acidic soil positioned in full sun to produce the deepest possible foliage color, and it is hardy to temperatures as low as -15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit). It is a widely popular ornamental plant, grown for its abundant clusters of flowers; for pink-flowering varieties, it is also grown for its deeply colored foliage that can display a mix of green, copper, purple, and red tones. In traditional Chinese medicine, the leaves, flowers, and roots of L. chinense (known in Chinese as 檵木, with pinyin jìmù) are all used.
