Leucothoe axillaris

Coastal Leucothoe

This native evergreen shrub has leathery, dark green leaves and 1 - 2 1/2" long clusters of fragrant, white flowers in April and May. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Leaves take on a purple tinge in winter.

The low-growing, spreading habit makes it a good choice for planting in front of taller, leggy plants and for massing in shaded areas. 

  • Native, broadleaf, evergreen
  • Clusters of fragrant, urn-shaped flowers
  • Good addition to the shaded woodland garden

  • Category: Shrub, Native
  • Hardiness Zone: 5-9
  • Height: 2-4 ft
  • Spread: 3-5 ft
  • Foliage Color: Green
Login for pricing
Landscape Characteristics
• Flowers
• Foliage Color
Specialty Use
• Woodland Garden
Classification by Use
• Color Impact
• Foundation Planting
• Mass Planting
• Native
Critter Resistance
• Deer Resistant
Habit
• Spreading
• Upright
Light Requirement
• Part Shade
• Part Sun
• Shade
Foliage
• Evergreen
Season of Interest (Flowering)
• Spring
Season of Interest (Foliage)
• Fall
• Spring
• Summer
Growth Rate
• Slow
Soil Moisture
• Average Water
• Well-Drained
Foliage Color
• Green
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Leucothoe axillaris

Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil with some organic matter. Avoid planting in droughty locations and locations with drying winds. Prefers part to full shade. Can be cut back to the ground after flowering if plants need to be rejuvenated.