Hi. I am actually in the Cleveland, Ohio area. Twice I have experimented with this beautiful plant, and twice I am having really bad luck. The leaves fall off, the limbs turn black and die one at a time. I have read that there is some canker problem with controversa and alternifolia with this plant as well as that it is not a very "tough" plant. We have had a record dry and hot summer, though I have tried to maintain a watering schedule. It is planted in part shade and well drained soil. Can someone give me some suggestions as to how to grow this plant should I try it again? Sun exposure, soil? what type of disease I may be seeing and if there is a way to treat it? Thank you!