Coast Leucothoen Coastal Doghobble Fetter Bush

Leucothoe axillaris (Ericaceae) is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub native to the southeastern United States. It reaches about 7 feet tall, developing a graceful form with distinctive zigzag branching. White to pinkish-white, urn-shaped flowers appear in drooping clusters from the leaf axils in May. Foliage takes on purple-red tones in winter.

Coast leucothoe thrives in part shade on moist to wet, acidic soils (pH 3.5 to 7.0) and tolerates anaerobic conditions. Water needs are low once established. It responds well to renovation pruning (removing 90 to 95 percent of top growth in late winter or spring). Powdery mildew is the primary documented disease. All parts are poisonous, containing andromedotoxin. Hardy in Zones 5a to 8b.