Arching branches hold leathery evergreen leaves in a fountain shape, turning bronze-purple through winter. Leucothoe axillaris is a native shrub growing 3 to 6 feet tall and wide in part shade, hardy from Zone 6 through Zone 8.
Drooping clusters of small white bell-shaped flowers open along the undersides of the branches in spring, tucked beneath the foliage.
This grows wild in the understory of southeastern woodlands and along stream edges, so it handles shade and moist soil, and it needs acidic ground with organic matter.
The evergreen foliage and low arching habit make it useful for facing down leggy rhododendrons or filling a shady bank. Deer leave it alone. It resents dry soil and hot afternoon sun, so a sheltered spot with steady moisture is what it wants.
Size at Maturity
Height 3'- 6' Spread 3'- 6'
Growing Zone
USDA Hardiness Zones 6-8
Lowest Temperatures -10°F to 0°F
Light Requirements
Part shade - 4 to 6 hours of direct sun per day, mostly before midday
Wildlife Benefits
Native Range
AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, SC, VA
Special Conditions
Seasons of Interest
How to Plant
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