This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: light, moist but well-drained, acidic soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: February to April
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This deciduous shrub puts on a gorgeous display in late winter and early spring, when the pendent, tassel-like racemes of small, bell-shaped flowers appear along the length of the bare, arching stems. It makes a handsome addition to the woodland garden or mixed border, and in smaller gardens, its stems can be tied onto a support against a wall.
  
  
• Garden care: Once established, the stems that have flowered should be cut back to their base. Apply a generous layer of mulch in spring and protect it from cold, dry winds.