Coastal Leucothoe
leucothoe axillaris
Also known as: ["Coastal Doghobble","Swamp Doghobble"]
Overview
A deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub native to the southeastern United States, known for its glossy, leathery leaves and drooping clusters of white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Leucothoe |
| Botanical Name: | Leucothoe axillaris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: shady garden beds, woodland edges, or containers in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, acidic, well-draining soil with organic matter like peat moss or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates morning sun but prefers protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to sunlight changes; avoid direct afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; place in dappled light for best growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid hot afternoon sun; adjust placement seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in hot, dry conditions
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water more during dry spells or high heat.
Soil
moist, acidic, well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Acidic (pH 5.0–6.0).
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); can tolerate mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas; stop fertilizing in late summer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a dome; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; avoid shearing to maintain natural form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape lightly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose right pot size; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during growing season; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or pine bark to improve acidity and drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth slows or halts in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from harsh winds; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or browning due to excessive heat and sun exposure.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLeucothoe axillaris is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLeucothoe axillaris is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLeucothoe axillaris is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much sunlight does Leucothoe axillaris need?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens.
Q: Is Leucothoe axillaris deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant due to its leathery leaves.
Q: Does Leucothoe axillaris require acidic soil?
A: Yes, it prefers acidic, well-drained soil similar to other Ericaceae family members.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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