Botanical profile

Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rainbow'

Latin name
Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rainbow'
Common name
Leucothoe 'Rainbow'
Type
Shrub
Family
Ericaceae

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.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 5
Exposure
Partial shade
Watering
Regular watering
Fertilization
Acid-loving fertilizer in spring. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Not recommended – use Bionik rooting agent or ground bone.
Soil type
Acid, organically rich, well-drained soil
Minimum temperature
'-28°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Dry, unornamental capsules
Foliage color
Variegated green, cream and pink
Foliage type
Persistent
Shape
Shrubby
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
1 to 1.2 m (39 to 48 inches)
Width
1.2 m (4 feet)
Growth rate
slow
Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.