Escallonia ‘Pink Elle’ (PBR)

Escallonia 'Pink Elle' is a stunning addition to any garden, renowned for its vibrant pink blooms and glossy semi-evergreen foliage. Flowering from Summer to Autumn, this plant stands out with its eye-catching pink flowers that create a striking contrast against its lush, dark leaves. Escallonia are classed as 'semi-evergreen' when in a UK climate. In a cold winter they will lose all or some of their leaves (depending on exposure and temperature levels). In a mild winter they will remain evergreen and keep their leaves. If the shrubs have lost or are losing leaves, rest assured that it will produce buds and leaf up once again for a new display of foliage and flower. 'Pink Elle' is especially admired for its versatility in garden design. It looks fantastic planted in garden borders, where its vivid colour can brighten up the landscape and add a touch of elegance. Additionally, this variety makes an excellent choice for hedging, adding both beauty and structure to outdoor spaces. Its dense foliage provides a lush backdrop that complements other plants, while its flowering period extends the garden's colour palette well into the cooler months. Our horticultural team loves 'Pink Elle' for its ability to enhance various garden styles, from formal layouts to more relaxed cottage gardens. Whether used as a feature plant or a stylish hedge, 'Pink Elle' consistently brings vibrant colour and a touch of texture and form to any garden design.

Escallonia thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a sunny to partially shaded location. It is well-suited for a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils, as long as drainage is good. Planting Escallonia in a sheltered spot will protect it from harsh winds and frost. Ensure ample space for the plant to grow to its full size, as it can become quite large. Ideal planting conditions include planting in Spring or early Autumn to allow establishment before extreme weather conditions.

Water Escallonia regularly, especially during dry periods, to establish strong roots. Once established, water less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Feed with a balanced fertiliser in early Spring to promote vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Reapply the fertiliser every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. In Winter, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging, which can damage the roots.

For Escallonia, regular pruning is essential to maintain its shape and encourage dense growth. Trim back after flowering, removing any dead or damaged branches, and cut back to shape in early Spring. In a mild winter they will remain evergreen and keep their leaves. If the shrubs have lost or are losing leaves, rest assured that it will produce buds and leaf up once again for a new display of foliage and flower. This plant is generally pest-resistant and can tolerate a range of conditions, but keep an eye out for aphids and scale insects. To prevent diseases like leaf spot, ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Escallonia’s resilience and low maintenance make it a reliable choice for many gardens.