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: moist, well-drained acid to neutral soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May to June
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Renowned for its autumn colour, this spreading, deciduous shrub actually has two seasons of interest. In early summer it produces clusters of delicate, bell-shaped, cream to pink flowers with darker pink margins. In autumn, the oval, mid green leaves turn flaming shades of orange and red. This pretty shrub is perfect for a shady, woodland edge and gives its most brilliant autumn display on acid soil.
  
  
• Garden care: Apply a thick 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of ericaceous compost or well-rotted leafmould around the base of the plant in spring. Little pruning is needed. Simply remove dead and diseased wood and branches that are crossing after the plant has flowered.