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Position

Sun Exposure:
Dappled shade, full shade, full sun, partial shade
Aspect:
East facing, north facing, south facing, west facing
Position in Border:
Front
Shade Type:
Damp

Soil

Acidic / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

The genus Leucothoe contains over 50 species, all of which are evergreen or deciduous shrubs. Like Pieris, heathers and rhododendrons, they're ericaceous plants that enjoy growing in acid soils. Leucothoes tend to grow best in a position that is partially shaded.

Leucothoe keiskei 'Royal Ruby' is an evergreen, low-growing cultivar, primarily grown for its glossy foliage, which ranges from green to rich ruby-red. The colour is enhanced by cold weather, so it's ideal for providing winter interest in the garden. In spring, clusters of small, white, fragrant flowers are produced.

For best results, grow Leucothoe keiskei 'Royal Ruby' in full sun or partial shade, in a moist but well-drained, acidic soil. Mulch annually with well-rotted pine needles – be extra generous if growing in full sun to ensure the soil doesn't dry out.

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Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plantyesyesyesyesyesyes
Flowersyesyes
Take cuttingsyesyesyesyesyes
Pruneyesyesyes

Leucothoe ‘Royal ruby’ and wildlife

Leucothoe ‘Royal ruby’ is known for attracting bees. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is not known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Butterflies/​Moths
Butterflies/​Moths
Is not known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators

Is Leucothoe ‘Royal ruby’ poisonous?

Leucothoe ‘Royal ruby’ can be toxic.

Toxic to:
Is known to attract Cats
Cats
Is known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is known to attract Horses
Horses
Is known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is known to attract People
People
No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
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