Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Scarletta Drooping'

shrub RHS AwardN. America Native

Scarletta Drooping Fetterbush

Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Scarletta Drooping'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

24 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium to high

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

20+ years

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Leucothoe fontanesiana is a broadleaf evergreen shrub native to the southeastern U.S. It is prized for its graceful, arching branches and leathery, lance-shaped leaves, thriving in shady, moist, acidic conditions. 'Scarletta' (Zeblid) is a superb cultivar selected for its compact size and spectacular foliage color. New growth emerges a brilliant scarlet-red, maturing to a glossy deep green, then transforming to a rich burgundy-bronze for the fall and winter.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

'Scarletta' is a premier foliage plant for shade gardens. It offers a dynamic color display throughout the year, from the fiery red of its new growth to the deep, wine-red of its winter foliage. The small, white, bell-shaped spring flowers are a delicate bonus.

This low-growing, spreading shrub is an excellent, low-maintenance groundcover for shady spots where other plants might fail. Its dense habit helps suppress weeds, and its deer resistance makes it a reliable choice in many landscapes. It is also good for erosion control on shady slopes.

As a native plant, Leucothoe supports local ecosystems. Its small, urn-shaped flowers provide nectar for native bees and other early-season pollinators. The dense foliage offers cover for ground-dwelling wildlife like toads and insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a shady or partially shaded site with acidic soil.
Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to increase organic matter.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant so its crown is level with the surrounding soil.
Backfill with the amended soil and water thoroughly.
Apply an acidic mulch like pine needles or shredded bark.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location protected from harsh winter winds and sun, which can cause leaf scorch and desiccation.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture; do not let the soil dry out completely.
Ensure the soil is acidic (pH 4.5-6.0) for best health.
Use as a groundcover under large trees like oaks and pines.
Appreciate its strong resistance to deer browsing.

Don't

Do not plant in full sun, which will scorch the leaves.
Avoid planting in alkaline (high pH) soils.
Don't let it get too dry, especially in the summer.
Refrain from heavy pruning, which will spoil its natural arching form.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful groundcover for shady areasExcellent foundation planting on the north or east side of a houseGraceful accent along woodland paths or stream banks

Companion Plants

Rhododendron catawbiense Kalmia latifolia Hosta 'Guacamole' Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum' Tiarella cordifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Scarletta Drooping Fetterbush questions

What zones can Scarletta Drooping Fetterbush grow in?

Scarletta Drooping Fetterbush is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Scarletta Drooping Fetterbush deer resistant?

Yes — Scarletta Drooping Fetterbush is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Scarletta Drooping Fetterbush bloom?

Scarletta Drooping Fetterbush typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Scarletta Drooping Fetterbush need full sun?

Scarletta Drooping Fetterbush does best in part shade.