Leucothoe fontanesiana Nana

Dwarf Leucothoe

Leucothoe fontanesiana ‘Nana’ (Dwarf Leucothoe) is a compact, evergreen shrub with a low, spreading to gently arching habit, featuring glossy, deep green foliage that may take on subtle bronze to reddish tones in cooler weather. Small, urn-shaped white flowers appear along the stems in spring, providing delicate seasonal interest. This dwarf form is valued for its tidy size and usefulness in smaller shaded spaces.

Type: Shrub (Evergreen)
Mature Size: 2–3' W × 1–2' H
USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Low, spreading to arching

Light: Part shade to full shade
Soil / Water: Moist, well-drained, acidic soils; moderate water, prefers consistent moisture
Bloom Time / Length: Mid to late spring; short to moderate (2–3 weeks)

Wildlife: Bees

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and as a low groundcover shrub. Works well under trees or in foundation plantings where a compact evergreen is needed. Provides year-round structure and texture.

Care:
Prune lightly after flowering if needed to maintain shape. Mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool. Avoid alkaline soils and drought stress for best performance.

Plant type

Evergreen Shrub

Height

1-2'

Width

2-3'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Late Spring, Mid Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Border, Container, Foundation Plant, Mass Planting, Woodland Gardens

Shape

Arching, Low Spreading

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No