Leucothoe axillaris

Sunset

Leucothoe axillaris 'Curly Red', photo courtesy of Trevor Sims/Garden World Images

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Zones 4-7, 15-17

Full, Partial

Moderate

Leaves and nectar are poisonous if ingested

Coast Leucothoe
Ericaceae
Evergreen, Shrubs, Flowers

LEUCOTHOE

Good filler plants that are best used in masses; smaller ones are even effective in mixed containers. They have leathery leaves and clusters of small, urn-shaped creamy white flowers. Need deep, acid, humus-rich soil; well suited to woodland gardens. Keep out of drying winds. For shape and neatness, prune oldest stems to the ground occasionally.

Leucothoe axillaris

Native to southeastern U.S. Spreading, arching plant 2–4 ft.tall, 3–6 ft. wide. Leaves arebronze when they emerge; theymature to dark green, then turnred in winter. Drooping, 1–3-in.-long flower clusters held alongstems in midspring. Regularwater. ‘Curly Red’ has red newgrowth that ages to apple green; leaves are tightly curled.