shrub

Burning Love Leucothoe

Leucothoe keiskei 'Burning Love'

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Leucothoe keiskei is a species of Leucothoe native to Japan. It is typically a low-growing, compact evergreen shrub with glossy leaves. 'Burning Love' is a distinctive cultivar selected for its vibrant red new growth in spring, which matures to a glossy green. In fall and winter, the foliage transforms to a deep, rich burgundy-red. It has a compact, non-suckering habit.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

This is a premier foliage plant for the shade garden, offering a dynamic color show through the seasons. The fiery red new growth, glossy summer green, and deep winter burgundy ensure it is always a focal point.

Its compact, clumping habit makes it perfect for small gardens, containers, or as a low, formal hedge in a shady spot. It requires very little pruning to maintain its neat shape.

While not a native, its spring flowers provide nectar for pollinators, and its dense evergreen structure offers shelter for small creatures during the winter months.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Ensure the soil is acidic, rich, and well-drained.
Amend soil with peat moss or compost if needed.
Plant at the same level as it was in its nursery pot.
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist.
Mulch to protect roots and maintain soil moisture.

Pro Tip

The best foliage color develops in partial sun; deep shade may result in less intense red and burgundy tones.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide morning sun and afternoon shade for best color.
Maintain acidic soil conditions with appropriate amendments.
Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist.
Use in containers for a dramatic, year-round display.

Don't

Do not plant in full, hot sun which can scorch the leaves.
Do not allow the soil to become dry or alkaline.
Do not prune heavily, as it has a naturally neat shape.
Avoid windy, exposed sites in winter.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful low hedge for shadeStriking container specimenYear-round interest for foundation plantings

Companion Plants

Hosta 'Frances Williams' Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' Heuchera 'Obsidian' Pieris japonica Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Burning Love Leucothoe questions

What zones can Burning Love Leucothoe grow in?

Burning Love Leucothoe is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Burning Love Leucothoe deer resistant?

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

When does Burning Love Leucothoe bloom?

Burning Love Leucothoe 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 Burning Love Leucothoe need full sun?

Burning Love Leucothoe does best in part shade.