Illustrative photo.
Leucothoe fontanesiana 'RAINBOW' leucothoe
size/type
small shrub,small shrub
usual height
0,3-0,6m
usual width
0,3-0,6m
leaves
evergreen broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
less showy but noticeable
location
semi-shade / partial sun
soil type
acidic (peaty)
soil moisture requirements
evenly moist (dislikes drought)
USDA zone (lowest)
7 (down to -23°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Leucothoe
Quite new in our gardens, leucothoe belongs to the same family as for example rhododendrons. It is becoming more and more popular as a hardy evergreen plant.Description of the plant:
Rainbow is a multicoloured variety of leucothoe. It has mid green leaves with rich, creamy white variegation / marbling. New leaves emerge bright pink and in autumn they gain burgundy red shades. Rainbow flowers quite reliably with 5-7 cm long racemes of pieris-like flowers. It dislikes direct sunlight. Rainbow may form long branches which can be cut in spring for compact shape and denser habit. As a groundcover, it is ideal for planting beneath taller shrubs or trees providing diffused sunshine, or in semi-shade.
Growing conditions and care
It tolerates most soils but will be beautiful and healthiest in slightly acidic, fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Fully hardy to -25°C (USDA zone 6).
Last update 20-02-2009.
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