Rainbow Leucothoe

Rainbow Leucothoe (Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rainbow')

Rainbow Leucothoe (Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rainbow') is a colorful evergreen shrub known for its striking variegated foliage and graceful, arching form. Native to the Appalachian region, this cultivar stands out in shade gardens with its year-round foliage display and delicate spring flowers. Its cascading habit and multicolored leaves make it ideal for adding brightness and texture to partially shaded borders, woodland gardens, and foundation plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Rainbow' features leathery, lance-shaped leaves marbled in green, cream, and rose-pink tones. New growth emerges with soft bronze or pink highlights, adding dynamic color throughout the season. In mid to late spring, small, urn-shaped white flowers bloom beneath the foliage. The arching branches give the shrub a naturally elegant, fountain-like shape, typically reaching 3 to 4 feet tall and wide.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial to full shade
• Soil: Moist, acidic, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter
• Water: Moderate; prefers consistently moist soil, especially in heat
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Vibrant variegated foliage brightens shaded planting areas
• Foundation Planting: Adds elegance and color near buildings or along walkways
• Woodland Gardens: Blends well with native ferns, hellebores, and hydrangeas
• Mixed Borders: Provides year-round contrast and texture in shaded beds
• Mass Planting: Useful for creating a colorful understory or stabilizing shady slopes

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; do not allow to dry out completely
• Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering to maintain form
• Fertilizing: Apply an acid-forming fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Helps conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
• Pest Resistance: Deer resistant and generally pest-free

Why Choose Rainbow Leucothoe?

• Bold Foliage Color: Cream, pink, and green tones provide vibrant contrast
• Evergreen Structure: Maintains color and form year-round
• Shade Adaptability: Ideal for areas with limited sunlight
• Graceful Form: Fountain-like shape adds softness and movement
• Focal Point: Multicolored leaves make it a standout in low-light landscapes

Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rainbow' offers multiseason beauty, textural interest, and colorful foliage that enlivens shaded gardens. Its dependable performance and graceful shape make it a valuable addition to any landscape in need of year-round color and structure.