Leucothoe axilaris

Leucothoe axillaris

Common name: leucothoe, coastal dog-hobble

Family: Ericaceae

Leaf: thick, shiny, dark-green leaves, elliptic-lanceolate, alternate, turning purple in colder weather, leaf and stem posture being fairly horizontal

Flower: fragrant, heather-like (ericaceous) white flowers, blooming in May on horizontal racemes

Habit: Spreading, low-growing, evergreen shrub; Form: vase-like

Height: 2-4'; Spread: 3-5'

Culture: Best grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade. Prefers an acidic, organically rich soil. Can tolerate full sun, as long as there is good moisture. Does not tolerate drought, dry soils, or windy conditions. USDA zones 6-9, though can be extended to USDA zones 5 by planting in a protected location with winter mulch.

Uses: shrubby groudcover, erosion control, slopes, rock garden, an under-planting to larger shrubs, or open trees.
Origin: South Eastern United States.