Coast Leucothoe

Light Needs

Partial Sun

(5-6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-6 Feet

Mature Spread

3-6 Feet

Growing Zones

6 to 8

Coast leucothoe is a stellar, low-maintenance shrub option that provides multi-season interest in shady areas. Also known as coastal doghobble or fetterbush, this plant has a mounding, upright spreading form but a manageable size and growth rate. The leaves stay on the plant year-round, changing from deep green in the summer to purple and bronze in the fall. In late spring to early summer, clusters of white flowers bloom along the stems. 

The coast leucothoe is native to the eastern United States. It has a sturdy root system and the flowers attract pollinators, so it is a solid addition to a woodland or natural planting or along a steep area like a river bank. Consider it a viable alternative to boxwoods and a great companion to rhododendrons in a woodsy setting. 

Coast Leucothoe Care

The Coast Leucothoe performs best in an area with shade or partial shade but in very humid areas  should have at least six hours of sunlight to avoid leaf diseases. If growing in full sunlight, make sure there is ample soil moisture. This shrub prefers moist, rich, acidic-soils. If rainfall and soil moisture are inadequate, plan to water it at least weekly during hot, dry weather. In USDA zone 5, plant the coast leucothoe in a protected area and spread mulch thickly over the root zone before winter. 

Coast leucothoe generally need little or no pruning. Cut off any broken stems or shoots or suckers that look out of place as they appear. The plant can also handle a rejuvenation pruning every few years; simply cut stems off a few inches above the soil line after flowering.

Coast Leucothoe Spacing

The coast leucothoe grows slowly to reach a height of three to six feet with a similar spread. Space plants three feet apart as a hedge or staggered in a mass planting. Give each more space if using them as a specimen.