Rainbow Leucothoe

Light Needs

Partial Shade

(3 - 4 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-6 Feet

Mature Spread

3-6 Feet

Growing Zones

6 to 8

Leucothoe fontanesiana Rainbow, commonly called Rainbow Leucothoe, is a small evergreen shrub with outstanding foliage color. Bright red stems hold shiny, lance-shaped leaves, which are marbled with green, pink, bronze and cream. They mature to a plum color in the fall that remains throughout the winter. In spring, watch for the long, drooping clusters of pieris-like creamy flowers that eventually age to dark blue berries. 

This is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub with elegant arching stems. It has a compact and tidy appearance, reaching 3 – 6 feet high and wide. It is native to the southeast region of the United States. The fragrant flowers attract butterflies and are lovely in cut flower arrangements. It is deer resistant and tolerant of soggy soil. Its evergreen foliage is well suited for a mixed border or foundation planting, where it can show off its prized year-round color. 

Rainbow Leucothoe Care

This shrub prefers partial shade but can be planted in full sun in cooler climates. Without sufficient moisture, the foliage will burn in full sun. Rainbow Leucothoe appreciates consistent moisture and can even tolerate boggy conditions. It requires acidic soil (pH 4.5 to 6.5) that is rich in organic matter, similar to rhododendrons and camellias. Mulch new plants with high quality compost to conserve moisture and keep the roots cool.

You can prune in late winter or early spring if your Rainbow Leucothoe becomes a bit leggy. Remove damaged or crossing branches any time of year.

Rainbow Leucothoe Spacing

To plant a tight hedge, space these shrubs approximately 3 feet apart, center on center. Increase the spacing to 6 feet apart if a gap between shrubs is desired.