Stephanandra tanakae

Stephanandra tanakae is a small bushy shrub characterised by its arching brown-orange branches and its cascading foliage that turns orange then yellow in autumn. Its summer flowering is subtle, in small panicles of white flowers. Winter reveals its sepia brown wood, which is not without charm. It is its majestic fountain-like habit that gives this low-maintenance shrub all its charm and grace.

Stephanandra tanakae belongs to the Rosaceae family and is a relative of spireas. Japan and Korea are the birthplaces of this little-known shrub. It will reach a height and spread of 1.5m (5ft) to 2m, with fairly rapid growth.

Stephanandra tanakae is a deciduous shrub with an open and arching habit, flexible in nature. The foliage develops on long arching stems that can touch the ground, giving the plant a silhouette reminiscent of a fountain. It consists of finely lobed and dentate leaves with pointed tips, pinkish-brown when they first emerge, measuring 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4in) in length. The dark green foliage turns orange then yellow in autumn. Flowering takes place in June-July in the form of light paniculate clusters measuring 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4in), consisting of small white flowers surrounded by stamens. The warm brown colour of its wood adds to its discreet charm during winter.

Plant it in ordinary soil, rich or poor, neutral or acidic, but above all moist to wet and well-drained. This shrub thrives in full sun or light shade. Pruning is not necessary, except to maintain a nice habit: the branches should be pruned back by one third after flowering. Remove 1/5 to 1/4 of the old branches at the base.

Stephanandra tanakae is a subtly beautiful shrub. It can be planted alongside Hydrangea paniculata to lighten their silhouette, as well as with Cornus alba. It is also excellent ground cover in large flowerbeds. It can be mixed with Nandina, Spiraea with pink flowers or golden foliage, and Lythrum.