Leucothoe
* Common name: Drooping laurel, leucothoe
Leucothoe ‘Rainbow’ starting to take on its fall/winter color.
* Botanical name: Leucothoe fontanesiana, Leucothoe axillaris
* What it is: These are two versions of a native, broadleaf evergreen shrub with glossy, pointed leaves, an arching habit, and white flowers in spring. Drooping laurel produces “suckering” shoots that expand the plant’s reach if you let it. ‘Rainbow’ is a particularly nice variety with deep burgundy winter foliage.
* Size: Plants grow 3 to 4 feet tall and slightly wider. Drooping laurel will creep outward farther. Leucothoe is more bush-like and less suckering.
* Where to use: Both of these species prefer shady to partly shady spots with good soil moisture and organic-rich, acidy soil. A shady rain garden or shady damp area is ideal. Northern or eastern foundations are also possibilities. Avoid hot, dry, windy areas.
* Care: Scatter an acidifying, organic granular fertilizer formulated for evergreens around the base of plants in March. To control size, shorten and thin out branches after plants finish blooming in spring. Plants also can be lightly sheared, but that diminishes the natural arching habit.
* Great partner: Pairs well with upright shade perennials that also prefer dampness, such as bleeding heart, Japanese anemone, astilbe, goats beard or ligularia. Carex is a good grassy partner.