Curly Red Leucothoe (Leucothoe fontanesiana ‘Curly Red’) is an evergreen shrub known for its unique visual interest. Its curled, glossy leaves display a captivating color transformation throughout the seasons, making it a popular choice for year-round appeal and texture in landscapes.
Characteristics of Curly Red Leucothoe
This shrub features thick, leathery, twisted, and curled leaves. New foliage emerges with a reddish-orange or purple-red hue in spring, transitioning to dark green in summer. As cooler weather arrives, the leaves deepen to shades of scarlet-red, burgundy, or purple.
It grows to a compact size, reaching about 1.5 to 2 feet (45-60 cm) in height and width, with a rounded, mounding habit. As a slow-growing plant, it suits smaller garden areas or containers. This cultivar thrives in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 6a through 9b. Small, bell-shaped white or cream-colored flowers can appear in spring, though they are subtle.
Planting Curly Red Leucothoe
Selecting the right location is important for the health of Curly Red Leucothoe. It performs best in partial to full shade, protecting it from intense afternoon sun that can scorch leaves. Protection from harsh winter winds is also important.
This shrub prefers well-draining, acidic soil rich in organic matter. An ideal soil pH range is between 4.5 and 6.5. If your existing soil is not sufficiently acidic or lacks organic content, amend it with materials such as compost or peat moss before planting.
When planting, dig a hole that is as deep as the root ball and about twice as wide. Gently remove the plant from its container, loosen any tightly bound roots, and place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with the amended soil, lightly firming it around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
Caring for Curly Red Leucothoe
Consistent moisture is key for Curly Red Leucothoe, especially during dry periods and for newly planted shrubs. While it prefers moist soil, avoid waterlogging, as soggy conditions can lead to root rot. Good drainage prevents water accumulation around the roots.
Maintaining partial to full shade helps preserve its vibrant foliage color and prevents leaf scorch. While it tolerates some morning sun, intense afternoon light should be avoided.
Fertilization is minimal for this shrub. If needed, apply a slow-release, acid-forming fertilizer in early spring. This provides nutrients without promoting excessive growth. Over-fertilization can lead to less vibrant fall foliage color.
Curly Red Leucothoe requires minimal pruning due to its compact and slow-growing habit. Any necessary pruning, such as removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches, is best done after the plant has finished flowering in late spring. This maintains its natural mounding form and health.
Applying a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant helps retain soil moisture, regulates soil temperature, and suppresses weed growth. Materials like pine bark, shredded leaves, or wood chips are suitable choices. Ensure the mulch does not directly touch the plant’s stem to prevent potential rot.
Addressing Common Issues
Curly Red Leucothoe is resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can encounter issues. Common garden pests such as spider mites or scale insects might appear, though infestations are rare. If pests become a problem, horticultural oil or insecticidal soap are effective treatments.
Issues related to poor drainage are more common than disease. Continuously wet soil can lead to root rot, a threat to the plant’s health. Ensuring proper soil preparation with good drainage is the best preventative measure.
Environmental stress can also manifest in the plant. Leaf scorch, characterized by browning leaf edges, indicates too much sun exposure. Yellowing leaves can signal that the soil is too alkaline, indicating a need for acidic soil. Proper site selection and soil amendments mitigate these stressors.
Using Curly Red Leucothoe in Your Landscape
Its unique foliage and compact size make Curly Red Leucothoe versatile for landscapes. It excels as a specimen plant in small garden beds or containers, allowing close appreciation of its leaves. It also works well in mass plantings, or as a border along pathways or garden edges, creating a continuous display of color and texture.
This shrub is well-suited for woodland gardens or shaded areas, providing year-round interest. It pairs effectively with other shade-loving plants that prefer acidic soil, such as ferns, hostas, rhododendrons, or azaleas. The contrasting textures and colors of these companion plants enhance the garden’s visual appeal.