Fothergilla gardenii

Common Names

Dwarf Fothergilla, Witch Alder, Coastal Fothergilla

Summary

Native to the southeastern United States, Fothergilla gardenii is a slow-growing, deciduous shrub in the witch-hazel family that forms a dense, compact mound about 2–3 ft tall and 3–4 ft wide, with zigzag branches and blue-green, leathery leaves; in spring it bears fragrant bottlebrush-like white flower clusters that appear before the leaves, and fall color ranges to brilliant yellows, oranges, and reds. Cultivation favors moist, acidic, well-drained soils with full sun to partial shade; best flowering occurs in full sun, though some shade is tolerated, and mulch helps retain moisture. Once established, moderate drought tolerance develops; it is generally pest- and disease-free and deer resistant. Propagation is by softwood cuttings in late spring through mid-summer or by suckers, and pruning is typically after flowering to avoid reducing bloom. Hardiness is USDA zones 5–8. Uses include foundation plantings, borders, woodland or mixed borders, hedges, mass plantings, or as a specimen plant; it also suits rain gardens.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

24-36 inches

Spread

24 inches-4 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5-8

Sunlight Requirements

Full Sun to Partial Shade

Soil Type

Acidic, moist, well-drained soil with adequate organic matter

Soil Drainage

Well-drained, moist, acidic soil

Soil pH

4.0-6.5, Acidic soil (low pH) ideal

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Spring (April through May)

Foliage Color

Blue-green to dark green

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow, Orange, Red

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Slow

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators