Dwarf Weigelia Black and White® (in 3 liter pot)

Dwarf Weigelia Black and White® – Weigelia Black and White® 'Courtacad1'

Main interest

The Dwarf Weigelia Black and White® is a deciduous shrub remarkable for the striking contrast between its dark foliage and bright white flowers. Selected by INRAE in Angers, this compact and original cultivar was awarded a bronze medal at the “PLANTARIUM 2009” fair in Boskoop, Netherlands. It stands out for its very short internodes, which give it a dense and harmonious silhouette. Its reduced size makes it an ideal choice for small gardens, borders or container planting. The dark green foliage gradually takes on purplish tones throughout the seasons, offering lasting ornamental interest. Flowering occurs in May and June, lighting up the branch tips with clusters of pure white trumpet-shaped flowers whose slightly tapered purplish-red base subtly echoes the colour of young leaves. This black-and-white contrast, rare among weigelias, gives the plant a modern and refined elegance. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, this cultivar is hardy down to -20 °C, making it suitable for many regions. Its moderate growth and compact habit make it easy to maintain and to integrate into varied plant compositions. It also attracts pollinators, contributing to garden biodiversity. In summary, the Weigela Black and White® is a decorative, robust and ecological shrub that enhances green spaces with its originality and ease of cultivation.

Origin and characteristics

• Geographic origin: French horticultural selection (Angers).
• Botanical family: Caprifoliaceae (formerly Dipsacaceae according to some classifications).
• Notable features: Unique black-and-white contrast, naturally dense dwarf habit, abundant bee-friendly flowering, ideal for containers and small spaces.

Description

• Adult height: 0.50 to 0.80 m, occasionally up to 1.00 m in very favourable conditions.
• Adult width: 0.70 to 1.20 m depending on vigour and pruning.
• Habit: Rounded, dense, bushy, naturally compact.
• Bark: Brown-grey, smooth to slightly striated, discreetly flaking with age.
• Foliage: Deciduous, purplish then dark green with purplish tinges, oval to elliptical, with finely serrated edges.
• Growth: Moderate and regular, with good natural branching.
• Hardiness: -20 °C

Flowering and fruiting

• Flowering period: May to June, with light reblooming in summer.
• Flower description: White trumpets with a slightly pinkish/purplish throat, fused petals, terminal inflorescences forming bright clusters on two-year-old wood and new shoots.
• Wildlife interest: Nectar-rich and accessible pollen, supports pollinators and beneficial insects, suitable for biodiversity-friendly gardens.

Exposure and soil

• Ideal exposure: Full sun to bright partial shade; full light intensifies the foliage/flower contrast while maintaining compactness.
• Suitable soil type: Ordinary to rich soil, fresh but well drained; tolerates slight acidity or neutral soils; avoid waterlogged ground.

Planting

• Soil preparation: Thoroughly loosen the soil, incorporate mature compost or planting mix, and create a drainage layer if the soil is heavy to ensure better rooting and hardiness. Spacing between plants: 60 to 90 cm depending on the desired effect; for low hedges, aim for 70–80 cm for quick, even coverage.
• Soil nature: Neutral to slightly acidic, fresh but drained, tolerates stony soils; avoid standing water and high levels of active limestone.
• How to plant: Gently remove from pot, untangle roots if circling, place at collar height, refill and water generously; for container culture, choose a draining substrate and a 10–15 L pot minimum.

Watering

• Watering needs at planting: Regular watering during the first weeks to keep the soil moist but not soggy; mulch to stabilise moisture and protect young roots.
• Watering needs at maturity: Moderate; water during prolonged dry spells, especially in containers where soil dries faster; organic mulch recommended to limit water stress.

Pruning

When and how to prune: Prune after flowering to preserve next year’s buds; cut back spent shoots to 2–3 nodes above a branching point, and thin out 1/4 of old wood every 2–3 years to renew flowering and maintain the compact habit.

Propagation

Possible propagation methods: Semi-hardwood cuttings in summer in a draining, moist substrate under cover; layering of a low branch, pinned and slightly notched, then separated the following season; hardwood cuttings possible in late winter for experienced gardeners.

Garden uses

• Ideal placement: Flowering borders, mixed beds, fronts of borders, terraces and balconies in containers; perfect for small gardens, lightly shaded edges and contemporary designs seeking strong contrast.
• Recommended plant combinations: Combine with Lavandula angustifolia (lavender), Geranium sanguineum (cranesbill), Heuchera (purple varieties), Nepeta (catmint), dwarf Spiraea japonica, or groundcover roses to enhance the black & white effect.
• Traditional uses: Mainly ornamental; no notable historical uses documented. Used as an accent plant and for structure in modern residential gardens.

Disease protection

Possible sensitivities (diseases and pests): Generally robust; possible aphids on young shoots, powdery mildew in humid, crowded conditions, chlorosis in calcareous soil.

Prevention and natural treatments: Promote good air circulation, avoid excess nitrogen, mulch; for aphids, use black soap; prevent powdery mildew by adequate spacing and horsetail decoction sprays; correct chlorosis with iron amendments.

Tips for good growth

Practical advice for optimal growth: Provide sufficient light for generous flowering; maintain a drained and amended soil; prune lightly after flowering to stimulate branching; combine with contrasting perennials; in containers, renew the substrate every 2–3 years and monitor watering.

Differences and specificities of the cultivar

The Black and White® 'Courtacad1' stands out with its naturally dwarf and dense habit, short internodes and striking contrast between dark foliage and white flowers. Compared to classic pink-flowered weigelias, it offers a distinctive monochrome palette ideal for graphical compositions. Its compactness reduces maintenance, its nectar production enhances biodiversity, and its reliable hardiness ensures success in varied climates.

The Weigelia Black and White® 'Courtacad1' enhances small spaces with its compact habit and bright flowering. Easy and hardy, it adapts to well-drained soils and sunny to partially shaded exposures. Its bee-friendly nature attracts pollinators, supporting active biodiversity. Ideal for containers, borders and mixed beds, it pairs beautifully with lavenders, hardy geraniums and heucheras to reinforce the strong contrast. Low maintenance: light pruning after flowering and mulching. A reliable choice for a graphic and lively garden.