Stachyurus 'Magpie' - 2013

I do like this...

That is a very attractive shrub. Hard to get? Here it is.

Klahanie - 'Magpie' is an old variety, probably superseded by 'Joy Forever'. The problem with 'Magpie' is that is is very weak-growing when young. I was advised to grow it in a pot for the first few years, overwintering it under cover, until it was fighting to get out of the container. It then grows away strongly. But it can be a sickly child.

I bet that is why nurseries here do not cary it. Most people want an instant gratification and if it is little bit of fuss they will not bother. It is not profitable to sell something that just few will buy.