This striking species was discovered by Kingdon Ward on the Temo La in the Tibetan province of Pome in 1924. New lustrous mahogany stems with deciduous powdery blue leaves are a harmonious complement to the intermittent soft yellow spring flowers. Leaves mature to a handsome purple, with some developing spines, on this upright and arching deciduous shrub. Oblong red fruit, dusted with a white bloom, develops as the season progresses. RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Mature size: 5-8 ft T x 5-8 ft W

Minimum temperature: F