Calycanthus 'Hartlage Wine' – Bold Burgundy Blooms with Irresistible Fragrance

Calycanthus × raulstonii 'Hartlage Wine' is a showstopping deciduous shrub that brings genuine drama to the garden with its large, deep wine-red flowers and sweet, fruity scent. A hybrid of exceptional vigour, it produces an impressive succession of exotic-looking blooms from late spring right through to autumn – a flowering season that outpaces most other ornamental shrubs. Each flower is a bold, multi-petalled affair in rich burgundy, carried against a backdrop of broad, glossy, dark green leaves that give the whole plant a lush, healthy presence throughout the growing season.

The overall habit is rounded and well-branched, building into a substantial, free-standing shrub that commands attention as a specimen while sitting equally comfortably within a mixed border. In autumn, the foliage softens to warm golden tones before falling, extending the plant's appeal well into the cooler months. Up close, the fruity fragrance – reminiscent of ripe strawberries and spice – makes 'Hartlage Wine' an exceptional choice for planting near seating areas, entrances or pathways where the scent can be fully appreciated.

Remarkably easy to grow and adaptable to a wide range of garden conditions, 'Hartlage Wine' rewards with very little in return for the effort asked of it. It is a genuinely low-maintenance plant with outstanding ornamental value season after season.

Why Choose Calycanthus 'Hartlage Wine'?

• Spectacular Blooms – Large, multi-petalled flowers in deep wine-red with an exotic, lotus-like quality.

• Exceptional Flowering Season – Blooms continuously from late spring through to autumn.

• Sweet Fragrance – A warm, fruity scent reminiscent of ripe strawberries and spice.

• Lush Foliage – Broad, glossy dark green leaves with attractive autumn colour.

• Low Maintenance – Vigorous, adaptable, and very easy to grow with minimal care.

Growing Conditions

Position: Calycanthus 'Hartlage Wine' thrives in full sun to partial shade. A sunny or lightly dappled spot will encourage the most prolific flowering and the strongest fragrance. It performs well against a warm wall as well as in open borders.

Soil: Best in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. It is adaptable to a range of soil types including loam and clay, provided waterlogging is avoided. Enriching the planting area with organic matter at planting time will give the best start.

Hardiness: Fully hardy across most of the UK and Ireland. Established plants are tolerant of summer drought, cold winters, and periods of heat, making them a reliably resilient choice for a wide range of gardens.

Care

Watering: Keep the root zone evenly moist during the first growing season to help the plant establish. Once settled in, 'Hartlage Wine' is moderately drought-tolerant, though a thorough watering during prolonged dry spells will maintain the best flowering performance.

Feeding: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to support vigorous growth and a generous flowering season. A mulch of well-rotted compost around the base in spring will also help retain soil moisture and feed the plant naturally.

Mulching: An annual mulch in spring, kept clear of the main stems, is beneficial – it retains moisture, moderates soil temperature, and gradually improves soil structure.

Pruning: Very little pruning is required. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late winter or early spring before growth resumes. If shaping is needed to maintain size or form, light trimming after the main flush of flowering in early summer is ideal. Avoid heavy cutting, as established plants flower most freely when allowed to develop naturally.

Design & Planting Ideas

• Plant near seating areas or garden entrances where the fruity fragrance can be enjoyed at close quarters.

• Use as a bold specimen set within a lawn or at the corner of a border to show off its rounded habit and dramatic flowers.

• Combine with ornamental grasses such as Miscanthus or Calamagrostis for a striking textural contrast.

• Pair with pale-flowered perennials – Astilbe, Heuchera or creamy Hydrangea – to make the deep burgundy blooms sing.

• Plant against an evergreen backdrop of Taxus or Ilex to highlight the richness of the flower colour throughout summer and autumn.

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

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Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.