Product description
This low-growing garden shrub produces small white flowers in spring, but there is no doubt that the foliage is the main attraction. The glossy leaves emerge red with white edges in spring, maturing to green variegated with gold during the summer. As the temperature drops, the leaves are once again flushed with red, providing plenty of colour interest throughout the greyest months of the year.
Also known as Doghobble or Drooping Laurel, Leucothoe Firestar has a naturally compact habit and grows well in pots and containers, making it ideal for brightening patio and paved areas all year round. However, it also works well as groundcover in beds and borders, complementing flowers and other foliage plants.
This is a low-maintenance garden shrub that is hardy and easy to grow. It prefers full sun or partial shade and thrives in acidic soil that is moist but well drained. Leucothoe Firestar doesn’t require regular pruning and only dead or damaged branches need to be removed.
Please Note: When purchasing plants, please consider that each live item is unique and may therefore differ from the images shown, which are for illustration purposes only. The plant will be supplied in a growers pot. Depending on season, some plants may be pruned back to encourage growth and deciduous plants may arrive without leaves.
Dog Hobble
Leucothoe 'Firestar'
Leucothoe 'Firestar'
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Product description
This low-growing garden shrub produces small white flowers in spring, but there is no doubt that the foliage is the main attraction. The glossy leaves emerge red with white edges in spring, maturing to green variegated with gold during the summer. As the temperature drops, the leaves are once again flushed with red, providing plenty of colour interest throughout the greyest months of the year.
Also known as Doghobble or Drooping Laurel, Leucothoe Firestar has a naturally compact habit and grows well in pots and containers, making it ideal for brightening patio and paved areas all year round. However, it also works well as groundcover in beds and borders, complementing flowers and other foliage plants.
This is a low-maintenance garden shrub that is hardy and easy to grow. It prefers full sun or partial shade and thrives in acidic soil that is moist but well drained. Leucothoe Firestar doesn’t require regular pruning and only dead or damaged branches need to be removed.
Please Note: When purchasing plants, please consider that each live item is unique and may therefore differ from the images shown, which are for illustration purposes only. The plant will be supplied in a growers pot. Depending on season, some plants may be pruned back to encourage growth and deciduous plants may arrive without leaves.
Give your plants the best start
Garden Plant Size Guide
Plants in larger pots can be multiple years older than their smaller counterparts with more mature root systems and foliage. This makes them able to thrive as a full size plant in your garden quicker than smaller alternatives.
The most common size of pot that garden plants come in are 9cm/1L/3L/5L this is in reference to the diameter at the top of the pot.
9cm potted plants still remain the most popular cost effective option though, they just may take a little patience to allow them to grow into full maturity once planted in your garden.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Leucothoe thrives in acidic, well-drained soil. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and protect roots from extreme temperatures.
How to Water
Water Leucothoe regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Water deeply during dry spells, especially in warmer months. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, as these plants prefer consistently moist conditions.
How to Plant
Plant Leucothoe in well-drained, acidic, moist soil in a partly shaded or shaded area. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, place the plant, and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly and mulch around the base to help retain moisture.
