Leucothoe fontanesiana, also known as the Highland Doghobble, is a stunning evergreen shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. It is adorned with leathery, lanceolate leaves that taper to a long point and turn red-green and purple in winter. The drooping spikes of waxy, urn-shaped, creamy white flowers droop from the leaf axils in spring (May), adding to its visual appeal. It is best grown in moist, acidic, organically rich, cool, sandy to clay, well-drained loams in part shade. However, it can also be grown in full sun as long as it has consistent moisture. This calcifuge plant requires a shaded position in acid soil and is tolerant of full shade. The cultivars 'Rollissonii' and Scarletta = ‘Zeblid’ have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. If you're looking for a low-maintenance, yet visually appealing shrub for your garden, consider planting Leucothoe fontanesiana.
