Rainbow leucothoe
Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rainbow'
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Cutting,Layering Propagation,Division,Grafting Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
5
Flowers:
Showy, White Flowers In Spring
Sun:
Deep shade, Filtered shade, Part sun/part shade
Soil:
Acidic
Fruits:
red,pink,tan,white Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green,yellow,pink,tan,white
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Rainbow leucothoe (Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rainbow') should be watered thoroughly and regularly. During the growing season (late spring to early autumn), water every 7-10 days if there is no rainfall. In areas with extreme heat or drought during that time period, water every 5-7 days. During the winter, water every 3-4 weeks only if the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause the plant's leaves to yellow and drop off.
sunlight
Rainbow leucothoe (Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rainbow') requires partial shade to full shade to thrive. More than 5 hours of direct sunlight a day will cause the foliage to burn, making it important to plant in a spot where it will receive some morning sun and afternoon shade. It is cold hardy and can handle light shade during the winter months, and even some full sun but the foliage may turn green and lose the rainbow coloration over time if exposed to too much sun.
pruning
Rainbow leucothoe should be pruned annually in late winter before new growth appears. Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased wood using sterile pruning shears. Cut away any branches that are crossed, rubbing, or blocking sunlight from reaching the interior. Also remove any sucker growth around the base of the plant. The remaining branches can be lightly pruned to shape the shrub as desired. Try to maintain an even size throughout the top of the plant. Light pruning is the best approach for these plants, as heavy pruning can interfere with flowering.
