Leucothoe fontanesiana Zeblid

Scarletta Leucothoe

Leucothoe fontanesiana ‘Zeblid’ (Scarletta Leucothoe) is a compact, evergreen shrub with a graceful, arching habit, featuring glossy green foliage that emerges with rich red tones and develops deep burgundy to purple coloration in fall and winter. Small, urn-shaped white flowers hang along the stems in spring, adding subtle seasonal interest. This cultivar is especially valued for its vibrant, year-round foliage color and smaller size.

Type: Shrub (Evergreen)
Mature Size: 3–4' W × 2–3' H
USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Compact, 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 foundation plantings. Its vivid red new growth and rich winter color provide strong seasonal interest. Ideal for mass plantings or as a low-maintenance accent in shade.

Care:
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape. Mulch to conserve moisture and protect shallow roots. Avoid alkaline soils and drought conditions; best performance occurs in consistently moist, well-drained sites.

Plant type

Evergreen Shrub

Height

2-3'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Late Spring, Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

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

Shape

Arching, Compact

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No