They are close to the same hardiness. Both of mine only had a little damage at -12*F as young plants. Both tend to keep their leaves better than the F. nitida but I would say that 'Rufa' looks the best of the three in the spring.

The Robusta is a gamble mine, is 6 inches tall after 4 years so I have moved it next to a wall where I hope it will get some extra heat in the winter.

Bill

During Winter months, how do y'all protect the Fargesias in those cold northern climates?

Do you mulch heavily before the ground freezes or wait till the ground freezes, then mulch?

Any other tips?

Thanks

Kt