Weigela (Weigela florida 'Elvera' MIDNIGHT WINE)

Overview

The Weigela florida ‘Elvera’ MIDNIGHT WINE is a compact, highly ornamental deciduous shrub valued for its stunning visual contrast. This specific cultivar, often sold under the MIDNIGHT WINE trade name, delivers an abundance of reddish-pink, funnel-shaped flowers from spring into early summer, set against deep burgundy-purple foliage. Gardeners prize this Weigela for its low maintenance profile and dense, rounded habit, making it highly versatile in small garden spaces.

Native to East Asia, this easy-to-grow shrub brings excellent structure and continuous color to the landscape. Beyond its spring floral display, which attracts hummingbirds, the dark foliage of Weigela florida ‘Elvera’ MIDNIGHT WINE holds its color well throughout the season. It provides an excellent structural element where a larger shrub might overwhelm a space.

This Weigela variety is known for being reliably hardy and tolerant of less-than-ideal planting conditions, provided it receives adequate sunlight to maintain its dark leaf coloration. Its manageable height makes it an excellent choice for foreground plantings or low hedge borders.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Caprifoliaceae
• Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-9
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 1.5-2 ft
  • Spread: 1.5-2 ft
• Bloom Time: April to June
• Bloom Description: Reddish-pink
• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Planting the Weigela florida ‘Elvera’ MIDNIGHT WINE is best done in spring or fall. Ensure it is placed where it receives full sun; while it tolerates light or dappled shade, consistent sun is essential for achieving the deepest burgundy-purple foliage color. It thrives in average to medium moisture, well-drained soils, and notably tolerates clay soils, offering flexibility in various garden sites.

Once established, this Weigela requires medium water, especially during dry spells, though it is not considered drought-tolerant. Fertilization is generally unnecessary if the soil is moderately rich. The most critical cultural practice involves pruning. To maintain its tidy, dwarf shape, prune immediately after the main spring flowering period ends. Avoid late-season pruning, as this removes wood necessary for next year’s blooms.

This shrub retains good color throughout the growing season and offers insignificant fall color, meaning it requires little attention once established beyond shaping. Propagate this variety easily via stem cuttings taken during the growing season.

Landscape Uses

The compact dimensions of Weigela florida ‘Elvera’ MIDNIGHT WINE make it an exceptional foundation plant for small spaces where larger shrubs fail. It performs wonderfully as a foreground specimen in shrub borders, offering dark contrast against brighter green or flowering perennials. Its dense structure lends itself perfectly to its suggested use as a low hedge, providing soft separation without blocking views.

Consider mass planting these shrubs for a striking, uniform block of color and texture in the landscape. They function well tucked against foundations or walls, provided sunlight exposure is sufficient. Pair the dark foliage of Weigela with plants that pop against deep purple, such as silvery lamb’s ears or bright chartreuse groundcovers.

For border design, the low-growing nature of Weigela florida ‘Elvera’ MIDNIGHT WINE complements taller flowering shrubs or evergreen backdrops. Its vibrant spring flowers are also highly attractive to hummingbirds, adding wildlife value to any planting scheme.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

Weigela florida is native to northern China, Korea and Japan. It is a dense, rounded, deciduous shrub that typically grows to 6-10’ tall and may spread over time to as much as 12’ wide. Branching is somewhat coarse, and branches on mature shrubs tend to arch toward the ground. Funnel-shaped, rose pink flowers (each to 1.25” long) bloom profusely in spring, with a sparse and scattered repeat bloom often occurring in mid to late summer. Elliptic to obovate, medium green leaves (to 4.5” long) with serrate margins retain good color throughout the growing season. Inconspicuous fall color and inconspicuous fruit. Flowers are attractive to hummingbirds. The specific epithet florida means “freely flowering,” referencing its abundant bloom habit. ‘Elvera’, known as MIDNIGHT WINE, is a dwarf selection prized for profuse reddish-pink flowers and deep burgundy-purple foliage.

Tolerances

• Clay Soil

Potential Problems

This robust shrub generally exhibits no serious insect or disease problems, contributing greatly to its low maintenance rating. Gardeners should scout for occasional aphids or scale insects, which can usually be managed with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap if infestations become heavy. Preventing future issues relies heavily on proper cultural care, particularly ensuring excellent drainage, as wet, soggy winter soil can stress the plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Weigela suitable for?

Weigela florida ‘Elvera’ MIDNIGHT WINE is reliably hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 9.

How large does Weigela florida ‘Elvera’ MIDNIGHT WINE grow?

This dwarf cultivar matures to a manageable height between 1.5 to 2 feet tall, with a similar spread of 1.5 to 2 feet wide.

What sun exposure does Weigela need?

For the best flowering performance and richest burgundy leaf color, this Weigela requires full sun exposure.

When does Weigela bloom?

The primary blooming period for Weigela florida ‘Elvera’ MIDNIGHT WINE is typically from April through June, featuring beautiful reddish-pink flowers.

Conclusion

The Weigela florida ‘Elvera’ MIDNIGHT WINE offers outstanding utility as a compact, low-maintenance specimen, defined by its richly colored foliage and prolific spring color display. Its tolerance for clay soil and manageable size ensure it excels in small garden designs or as neat, low hedging. Before planting, confirm your location falls within USDA Zones 4-9 and ensure a sunny spot is available to highlight its dramatic coloring.

Wildlife Benefits

The vibrant bloom display of the Weigela is a significant attractant for local fauna. The funnel-shaped, reddish-pink flowers are noted specifically for drawing in hummingbirds during their peak flowering period in spring and early summer. Planting this shrub near a patio or window can offer excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.

Propagation Tips

This cultivar is readily increased through stem cuttings, making it simple for enthusiastic gardeners to expand their planting dramatically. Take semi-hardwood cuttings later in the growing season when the stems are semi-firm but not brittle. Dipping the base of the cutting in rooting hormone before planting in a moist, well-draining medium can significantly increase success rates for rooting your new Weigela florida ‘Elvera’ MIDNIGHT WINE shrubs.