Stachyurus praecox

A deciduous shrub native to Japan, Stachyurus praecox has catkin-like, drooping, racemes of pale yellow flowers in March, or earlier if the previous winter was mild. Masses of these flowers appear on established plants, creating an eye-catching display.

The attractive, pale green leaves appear after the flowers have fallen and last until autumn, turning yellow or bronze in colour before they fall. Stachyurus praecox is a superb plant for creating interest early in the year!

• Position: Full sun or partial shade.
• Soil: Moist, acidic, well drained soil.
• Hardiness: Reasonably hardy. Stachyurus praecox requires protection from cold winds and late spring frost once the leaves emerge.
• Flowering Period: March.
• Flower Colour: Pale yellow
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Stachyurus praecox grows to be a medium sized, rounded shrub.
  • Height: up to 2.5 m (8 ft)
  • Spread: 3 m (10 ft)

• Notes: Stachyurus praecox will grow in full sun as long as it is planted in a soil which remains moist all year round. As a general rule of thumb, it is usually a little less demanding in a position with partial shade or dappled sunlight.