Fothergilla gardenii

Gardenii Dwarf Fothergilla

Fothergilla gardenii — commonly called Dwarf Fothergilla — is a compact, deciduous shrub valued for its fragrant spring flowers, attractive foliage, and outstanding fall color. It forms a dense, mounded plant with rounded, blue-green leaves. In early spring, before or as the leaves emerge, it produces showy, bottlebrush-like white flowers with a sweet honey fragrance. In fall, the foliage turns brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red, often all on the same plant.

Mature Size:
Width: 3–5 ft
Height: 3–5 ft

USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Light: Full sun to partial shade (best fall color in sun)
Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic soils; intolerant of alkaline soils
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture

Wildlife: Attracts bees and butterflies

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Compact, mounded deciduous shrub
Fragrant, white bottlebrush flowers in early spring
Outstanding multicolor fall foliage display
Native plant well suited for naturalized and woodland gardens
Excellent for borders, mass plantings, and foundation use

Maintenance:
Low maintenance; prune only as needed after flowering
Prefers acidic soils; avoid lime
Mulch to maintain moisture and soil conditions

Plant type

Evergreen Shrub, Flowering Shrub

Height

3-5'

Width

3-5'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

White, Yellow

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Foundation, Mass Planting

Shape

Globe Shaped

Bark

Smooth

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No