Rollison�s Leucothoe

Rollison�s Leucothoe (Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rollisonii')

Rollison�s Leucothoe (Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rollisonii') is a refined, evergreen shrub valued for its deep green foliage, graceful form, and adaptability to shady, acidic environments. This cultivar of the Appalachian native thrives in woodland gardens and shaded borders, where its arching stems and glossy leaves bring structure and year-round interest to low-light areas. It is a reliable performer that blends seamlessly into naturalistic and formal plantings alike.

Distinctive Features

'Rollisonii' stands out with its rich, dark green leaves that maintain their color through all seasons. The foliage is slightly broader and more robust than typical Leucothoe fontanesiana varieties, giving the plant a fuller, more substantial appearance. In spring, small, urn-shaped white flowers bloom along the undersides of the arching stems. The shrub typically reaches 3 to 4 feet tall and 4 to 5 feet wide, with a graceful, cascading habit that softens shaded garden spaces.

Growing Conditions

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

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Elegant arching habit and glossy foliage create a strong visual anchor in shade
• Woodland Gardens: Pairs well with ferns, hostas, and spring-blooming natives
• Foundation Planting: Adds evergreen texture and color to north-facing beds
• Mass Planting: Useful for shaded slopes or as a natural hedge
• Mixed Borders: Offers contrast and continuity with other acid-loving plants

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain even moisture, especially during dry spells
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering if shaping is needed
• Fertilizing: Apply an acid-loving fertilizer in spring
• Mulching: Retains moisture and supports root health
• Pest Resistance: Resistant to deer and generally trouble-free

Why Choose Rollison�s Leucothoe?

• Evergreen Appeal: Provides lush, year-round foliage in shady spaces
• Graceful Structure: Arching stems soften edges and add movement
• Shade Adaptability: Thrives where sun-loving shrubs struggle
• Reliable Performance: A dependable option for tough, low-light areas
• Focal Point: Its form and foliage make it a standout in shaded borders and foundations

Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rollisonii' brings classic structure, evergreen resilience, and understated beauty to shaded gardens. Its graceful shape and dependable nature make it a lasting choice for landscapes seeking quiet strength and year-round greenery.