I am in zone 5a and agree that many of the newer introductions just don't last past the first winter. These are the cultivars that work for me. All have been in the ground for at least 3 years. All are in bright shade with early morning sun and planted on a slope (I think that the key to success with these plants is excellent drainage, especially in the winter): Citronelle- this cultivar burns badly in the sun; Southern Comfort - needs morning sun for best color; Venus - a great performer and has come back for the last 5 years; Delta Dawn and Tiramisu - to me they are identical - loses the burgundy coloring in summer, Autumn Bride - this is a villosa strain.
