How can you resist a bush that is named "beauty"?  The Beauty Bush - Kolkwitzia amabilis is tall, about 6-8 feet.  It's arching shape is like an upright vase.  It's sometimes even referred to as a fountain shape.  The soft pink spring flowers are very dainty looking and bell shaped.  They really show off among the dark green leaves that turn yellow and red in the fall.  It is drought tolerant and does well in sandy soil.  It can become leggy as it ages so you might need to do some pruning to the older stems.  It can get as wide as it is tall so you'll want plenty of room for it's full growth when planting.

It works well as a hedge plant and if you are a bird lover, they will be attracted to the tan, hairy seeds it produces.  It has an interesting bark that is light brown and will split from top to bottom and then peels and exfoliates.  Your family and friends will enjoy admiring the many changes this bush goes through.  You might even get some envious neighbors.