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Common Name: leucothoe
Type: Broadleaf evergreen
Family: Ericaceae
Zone: 6 to 9
Native Range: Southeastern United States
Height: 2 to 4 feet
Spread: 3 to 5 feet
Bloom Time: May
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Description: White
Sun: Part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Medium
Flowers: Showy Flowers, Fragrant Flowers
Uses: Hedge
Culture
Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in part shade. Prefers an acidic, organic soil. Can be grown in full sun, but must have good moisture. Does not tolerate drought or windy conditions. Although winter hardy to Zone 5, this shrub should be planted in a protected location and given a good winter mulch in the St. Louis area to insure winter survival.
Noteworthy Characteristics
This low-growing, evergreen shrub has a spreading, vase-like shape and will mature slowly to a height of up to 3-4'. Features thick, shiny, dark green leaves and clusters of slightly fragrant, heather-like, white flowers which bloom in May. Leaves turn a purplish-bronze hue in winter. A native plant of the Eastern U.S. from Virginia south.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Root rot and leaf spot are occasionally problems, however.
Garden Uses
This small shrub may be used effectively in the rock garden, border, on slopes, as a foundation plant or as an underplanting for larger shrubs.