Description

An evergreen shrub with cascading form and slow growth rate. Bright green, leathery, lanceolate-shaped leaves are splashed with varying degrees of white and pink. Fall foliage colours are a rainbow of deep burgundy, bright red, oranges, and yellows. White flowers are displayed in drooping clusters in spring.

The species, Leucothoe fontanesiana, is native to the eastern part of North America. This particular cultivar was discovered as a seedling at the Hillier Nurseries in England.

While most references state leucothoe should be planted in at least partial shade, some have confessed to giving it full sun. The amount of sun this shrub receives daily will directly impact on how much variable colour will develop on the leaves. The more sun, the more colour. However, it has been stated, extended direct sun can scorch, thus damaging the leaves.

Caution: Leaves and flower nectar are highly toxic if ingested. Harmful to children, pets, horses, and especially goats.