Rich organic soils with medium moisture levels, good drainage, full sun to partial shade, and ease of growth. flourishes in damp soil and values a summer mulch that keeps the soil moist. Old wood develops a bloom. Immediately after flowering, prune if necessary (very minor pruning is typically required). Trimming of winter-damaged stems is possible in the early spring. In USDA Zone 5, plants should be given a protected position and winter cover (such as mulch or burlap wrap), especially if they are still developing. In hard winters (temperatures below -10 degrees F), plants might lose a considerable number of flower buds or die to the ground, so reducing or completely eliminating the bloom for the next year.
