Leucothoe fontanesiana

Native to the southeast, primarily the Appalachian Mountains, Mountain Doghobble is commonly found in moist forested areas, especially along stream banks and ravines. A flowering evergreen shrub, it blooms from mid-spring to midsummer in waxy, bell-shaped, white flowers that almost appear to fluoresce. The very fragrant, showy flower clusters droop from the leaf axils, usually towards the tips of the branches, giving the arching branches of long, leathery, lanceolate leaves a weighted down, fountain-like appearance. The leaves are sharply toothed and take on a great fall color.

The plant grows best in moist, acidic, organically rich, well-drained loams in dappled sunlight, but can be grown in full sun or full shade. Under optimal conditions, it can reach 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide and get quite dense, but it can be heavily pruned to control its size. Although hardy in Zones 5 through 8, it is heat sensitive and does not tolerate drought or windy conditions; so, it should be planted in a protected location and given a good mulching to ensure winter survival in cold climates and to maintain consistent moisture in warm climates, especially if planted in full sun. It will form colonies over time and is a great companion plant for rhododendrons.

As a native plant, it is an important source of nectar and pollen for pollinators.

Highly deer resistant.

Uses: River and Streambanks, Wetlands, Ravines, Shade and Pond Gardens