Plant Details

Great Plant Picks - This handsome evergreen shrub is covered with dark green shiny leaves that hide sharp spiny stems. It is an excellent low barrier shrub that can be left to grow naturally or can be clipped into a tight impenetrable hedge. In spring primrose yellow flowers dangle in clusters amongst the foliage. In the fall the interior leaves turn a bright red and glow beneath the remaining evergreen leaves. If grown in the sun the winter foliage will be blushed plum-purple until spring. 'William Penn' is an adaptable shrub that grows well in full sun to dappled shade. It prefers a location with well-drained soil, but will tolerate sand and clay. Once established it only needs occasional watering during dry weather, especially in sandy soils or in full sun. If grown in shade, this shrub can tolerate drought. Light pruning can be done in winter to help maintain its form, but is generally not necessary.