Escallonia ‘Showstopper’ (PBR)

Escallonia 'Showstopper' lives up to its name with a spectacular display of colour and texture. This semi-evergreen shrub captivates with its vibrant red-pink flowers, which bloom profusely from Summer to Autumn. 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. The striking blossoms create a dramatic contrast against the plant’s glossy, dark green leaves, making it a standout feature in any garden. 'Showstopper' is highly versatile in garden design. It excels as a striking focal point in borders, where its bold colour can enhance the surrounding plantings and attract attention. This variety also serves beautifully as a hedge, offering not only privacy but also an eye-catching floral display throughout its long blooming season. Its dense, compact growth makes it an excellent choice for defining garden spaces and adding structure to outdoor areas. Our horticultural team appreciates 'Showstopper' for its ability to provide year-round interest and its reliable performance in various garden settings. Whether featured as an individual specimen or as part of a mixed planting scheme, 'Showstopper' consistently adds a burst of colour, texture and form to any landscape.

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.