Purpleleaf Sandcherry

Plant in spring or fall in well-drained soil in full sun, spacing 5–7 feet apart. Purpleleaf sandcherry is a tough, adaptable shrub with deep purple foliage that holds its color well through the growing season. It tolerates dry, sandy, and rocky soils better than most ornamental shrubs. No special soil preparation is needed. Water well at planting and reduce as the plant establishes.

Prune right after the fragrant pink spring bloom — this shrub blooms on old wood, so pruning later removes next year's flower buds. The purple foliage and fragrant pink flowers in early spring provide a striking two-season display. Very drought tolerant once established. No regular fertilizing is needed in average soils. An excellent, tough shrub for hot, dry sites and mixed borders where bold foliage color is desired.