Fothergilla gardenii Mount Airy

Mount Airy Fothergilla

Fothergilla × intermedia ‘Mount Airy’ — commonly called Mount Airy Fothergilla — is a larger, deciduous shrub valued for its fragrant spring flowers, blue-green foliage, and exceptional fall color. It forms a dense, rounded plant with attractive, rounded leaves that often have a bluish cast. In early spring, before or as the leaves emerge, it produces showy, honey-scented, white bottlebrush flowers. In fall, the foliage turns brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red, often displaying multiple colors at once.

Mature Size:
Width: 6–8 ft
Height: 5–8 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: Rounded, dense deciduous shrub with a broad habit
Fragrant, white bottlebrush flowers in early spring
Blue-green foliage provides summer interest
Outstanding multicolor fall foliage display
Excellent for borders, mass plantings, and native landscapes

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

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Shrub

Height

5-8'

Width

6-8'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Soil

Acidic, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Mass Planting

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No