Fothergilla gardenii 'Blue Shadow'

Blue Shadow Fothergilla

Fothergilla gardenii ‘Blue Shadow’ — commonly called Blue Shadow® Dwarf Fothergilla — is a compact, deciduous shrub valued for its unique blue foliage, fragrant spring blooms, and brilliant fall color. It forms a dense, mounded plant with rounded, powdery blue-green leaves that provide cool-toned contrast through the growing season. In early spring, before or as the foliage emerges, it produces showy, honey-scented, white bottlebrush flowers. In fall, the foliage transforms into vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red.

Mature Size:
Width: 3–4 ft
Height: 3–4 ft

USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Light: Full sun to partial shade (best 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
Distinctive blue foliage provides season-long interest
Fragrant, white bottlebrush flowers in early spring
Outstanding multicolor fall foliage display
Excellent for borders, mass plantings, and native gardens

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

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Shrub

Height

3-4'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Spring Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Mass Planting

Shape

Compact, Mounded

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No