How to grow leucothoe
Find out how to grow and care for leucothoe, with our guide.
Leucothoe (dog hobble) is a shrub that's grown primarily for its glossy foliage. Its oval leaves, which can be one colour or marbled, come in shades of green, red and purple, with some varieties turning bronze in autumn. Small, white urn-shaped flowers hang down from the stems between March and May, but provide less of an impact than the leaves themselves.
This tough shrub is native to parts of Asia including East Himalaya, China and Japan, as well as West and South East USA, where it grows in woodlands and damp areas, such as beside streams. It's common name of dog hobble is thought to have derived from its dense habit, which hunting packs of dogs couldn't penetrate while chasing bears.
In the UK, it's an easy shrub to grow in shady borders, where it complements other acid-loving plants like skimmia and euonymus. Many varieties are evergreen, which means it looks good year round, ranging in height from 50cm high to 1.5m. For those looking for a plant for a pot, try the compact Leucothoe axillaris 'Curly Red' or 'Little Flames' which grow to 50cm. In borders, Leucothoe Scarletta makes a striking focal point, reaching around 1.2m tall and 2m wide, with arching branches and foliage that turns from red to green, then bronze, as the leaves age. Leucothoe fontanesiana is another good choice for a border or focal point, with dark green leaves that take on purple shades in the winter.
How to grow leucothoe
Grow leucothoe in moist but well-drained acidic soil in a shady spot. As long as the soil doesn't dry out, this useful shrub shouldn't cause any problems.
Where to grow leucothoe
The best place for leucothoe is in a partial or full shade, depending on the variety you're growing. They're a good choice for a woodland area or to add structure to a mixed border.
How to plant leucothoe
Water or soak new plants well before planting. When planting leucothoe in a container use peat-free ericaceous compost, as this shrub thrives in acidic soil. Fill the pot two-thirds full of compost, remove the plant from its pot and place in the container. Fill in around the plant with compost, firming it in well. Make sure the plant sits at the same level as it was in its nursery pot, with the top of the rootball level with the surface of the compost.
If planting leucothoe in the ground, dig a hole that's twice as wide as the rootball. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, teasing out any roots that are tightly bound. Place the shrub in the hole and backfill with compost. It should sit with the top of the rootball level with the ground. Firm it in well and water well.
How to care for leucothoe
Water your leucothoe regularly until it's established. These shrubs are tough, low-maintenance plants that don't have a complicated care regime. As long as they are planted in the right place, they shouldn't need extra care.
How to prune leucothoe
Leucothoe needs only light pruning to reshape if necessary. The best time to do this is from late winter to early spring. Remove any stems that are crossing over each other, as well as any that are dead or diseased.
Pests and problems
Leucothoe is generally trouble free.
Advice on buying leucothoe
- If buying leucothoe for a container, choose one of the smaller varieties such as Leucothoe axillaris 'Curly Red'
- Always check plants for signs of damage or disease before planting.
- Leucothoe are available from garden centres but you may have more choice from a nursery or online
Where to buy leucothoe
Frequently Asked Questions
How big does a leucothoe grow?
Leucothoe can vary in size depending on the variety, with some of the smallest reaching around 50cm in height and spread, and the largest growing to 1.5m tall, with a spread of 2.5m.
Is leucothoe frost hardy?
Leucothoe is hardy throughout the UK. It is classified as H6 by the RHS, which means it is hardy down to -15º.
Jan subscription offer
Get our Year Planner 2025 with a subscription to BBC Gardeners' World magazine. Get 6 issues for £14.99.
Your Guide to Roses on sale now
Love roses? Inside our guide is everything you need to know for success with your blooms, from pruning to problem solving. On sale in stores and online now!
Discover our NEW Travel & Events Brochure
Whether it's the vibrant beauty of Madeira's Flower Festival or the quiet luxury of a Cornish shepherd's hut, our NEW Travel & Events Brochure is your guide to unforgettable experiences.
New podcast series
Give your mental and physical health a boost, with our new Wellness podcast series from Monty and the team.
