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Rhodoleia henryi

$30.00 Sold out
1 Gallon USDA Zones 8–10 Part Shade Matures 30–40 Feet

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Roots wrapped in moist soil and padded for safe transit
Grown and shipped from our nursery in Aiken, SC
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The Full Story

This beautiful evergreen shrub or tree from south China is little known in the U.S. and material in cultivation may be taxonomically confused. This plant has more pointed leaves than our Rhodoleia championii, and the species R. henryi may be more cold hardy.

Both species have showy pink to red flowers and very lovely glossy foliage. These plants are in the Witchhazel family. Our stock plant of "Rhodoleia henryi" was shared with us by Sean Hogan, plantsman extraordinaire of Cistus Nursery in Portland, Oregon.

Plant in good soil that is well-drained and in a location shaded from the hot afternoon sun.

For those interested, we have a beautiful specimen planted at Hopeland Gardens here in Aiken, South Carolina.
Will this plant thrive in your zone?

Plant Profile
At a glance
Hardiness
USDA Zones 8–10
Sun
Part Shade
Soil
Well-drained, Acid
Mature size
Height 30–40 Feet · Spread 12–15 Feet
Growth rate
Moderate
Seasonality
Evergreen
Flower, Fruit & Foliage

Foliage:
Rhodoleia henryi keeps its good looks all year with glossy, deep green leaves that feel a bit leathery to the touch. The leaves are neatly shaped—oblong and smooth-edged—with a soft, silvery underside that catches the light just right. New growth pushes out in shades of bronzy red, adding a pop of color even when the plant isn’t blooming. Altogether, the foliage gives off a tidy, sculptural vibe, making it a great choice for anchoring a shady border or adding structure to a woodland garden.

Flowers:
This is where Rhodoleia really shines. Just when the rest of the garden is catching its breath, usually in late winter or early spring, clusters of wild, tassel-like flowers start to open. The petals are long, narrow, and a brilliant shade of crimson to deep magenta—kind of like little fireworks or feather dusters dangling from the branches. They're lightly fragrant and a total treat for early pollinators. If you're looking for winter drama, this plant delivers.

Fruit:
After the flowers fade, you might spot a few small, dry seed capsules forming. They're not much to look at and usually not the main event—especially in cooler areas where fruiting can be sparse. But if you're into collecting seeds and trying your hand at propagation, they're worth keeping an eye on.

Care

Read our full care guide

This striking evergreen from the witch-hazel family brings an exotic flair to the garden with its bold foliage and dramatic winter blooms. Native to southern China and Taiwan, Rhodoleia henryi thrives in mild climates and sheltered woodland settings, where it adds texture and color when most of the landscape lies dormant.

Light Requirements:

Prefers dappled shade to bright, indirect light. It will tolerate morning sun, but strong afternoon rays—especially in hotter regions—may scorch the leaves. Ideal under high canopies or along the filtered edges of a woodland border.

Soil Preferences:

Well-drained, acidic soil with a rich humus layer is best. Mimic its natural forest floor conditions by incorporating leaf mold or pine bark into your planting mix. Avoid heavy clay or soils that remain soggy after rain.

Watering:

Keep soil consistently moist, especially in the first two to three years as the plant establishes. Once mature, Rhodoleia henryi shows moderate drought tolerance, though it always appreciates a deep watering during dry spells.

Mulching:

Apply a generous mulch of pine straw, shredded bark, or leaf litter to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the root zone cool. Replenish yearly, taking care not to mound mulch against the trunk.

Temperature Tolerance:

This is a subtropical shrub with modest cold tolerance. It can generally handle temperatures down to 15–20°F, but younger plants benefit from some winter protection in zone 8a and below. A burlap wrap or frost cloth on especially cold nights can prevent tip damage.

Fertilization:

Not a heavy feeder. In spring, apply a slow-release, acid-loving plant fertilizer (like one formulated for camellias or azaleas) to support new growth and flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas, which may encourage leggy growth at the expense of blooms.

Pruning:

Minimal pruning is needed. If shaping is desired, prune just after flowering in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or damaged wood, and thin lightly to improve airflow.

General Notes:

Rhodoleia is a slow and steady grower, forming a dense, upright shrub or small tree over time. Its crimson, brush-like flowers emerge in winter to early spring and are a magnet for pollinators. This makes it a lovely choice for gardeners seeking winter interest and wildlife value. In the right spot, it is a low-maintenance gem with year-round beauty.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants

From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

Woodlanders Growing Process

Because most of our plants are grown from rooted cuttings — alongside seed, air layering, and grafting chosen for each variety — you receive a stronger, true-to-type plant that establishes quickly in your garden.

Sustainable Growing Practices

Raised on organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management — never harsh chemicals — your plant arrives healthy for your garden, your family, and the pollinators they feed.

Supporting Local Biodiversity

Every purchase gives back. We donate to the Aiken Arboretum and support local wildlife conservation, so growing your garden helps protect the wider ecosystem too.

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.
Grown in Aiken, South Carolina
At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders
Healthy plants, ready to thrive
Success, made simple
Healthy plants, ready to thrive

Your plant arrives carefully packed and ready to settle in. Unpack them promptly, give them a day or two to acclimate, then plant following the notes we include — that’s all it takes. Clear care guidance comes with every order, so success is the easy part.

Read the care guide
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Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
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Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.