Hardiness
Zone 5
Discover the plant
Leucothoe 'Rainbow'
FamilyEricaceae
Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rainbow', commonly known as Rainbow Leucothoe, is an ornamental evergreen shrub highly valued for its variegated foliage and changing colours throughout the seasons. This variety forms a dense, slightly spreading bush with narrow leaves displaying a decorative mix of green, cream, and sometimes pink. In spring, young shoots can take on pinkish or reddish hues, while in autumn and winter, the foliage often turns bronze to purple, offering visual interest almost all year round. In spring, small, bell-shaped white flowers appear in pendulous clusters, attracting pollinators. Ideal for woodland gardens, acid-loving plant beds, or shaded borders, this shrub prefers rich, acidic, well-drained soils.
Soil and care
The rightconditions.
Fertilization
Acid-loving fertilizer in spring. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Not recommended – use Bionik rooting agent or ground bone.
Bloom and dimensions
The completeprofile.
Bloom periodSpring
Flower colorWhite
Foliage colorVariegated green, cream and pink
Foliage typePersistent
FruitingDry, unornamental capsules
Maximum height1 to 1.2 m (39 to 48 inches)
Maximum width1.2 m (4 feet)
Growth rateslow
Hardiness zoneZone 5
Minimum temperature'-28°C
