Scarletta Fetterbush (Leucothoe fontanesiana ‘Scarletta’ or ‘Nana’) is an appealing evergreen shrub valued for its year-round visual interest. This cultivated variety offers a distinctive foliage display that shifts through a spectrum of colors. Its compact size and vibrant hues enhance landscapes, particularly during cooler months.
Understanding Scarletta Fetterbush
Scarletta Fetterbush grows 2 to 4 feet tall and wide, forming a dense, mounding habit. Its most notable feature is the dynamic color transformation of its leaves: new spring growth emerges scarlet-red to bronzy-orange, maturing to glossy dark green in summer. As autumn progresses into winter, foliage develops rich burgundy, bronze, or dark purple hues that persist through the colder season. Small, fragrant, white, bell-shaped flowers often appear in drooping clusters in spring, though the plant is primarily celebrated for its foliage.
Planting and Ideal Growing Conditions
Successful planting begins with selecting an appropriate site. This shrub thrives in partial to full shade, benefiting from protection against intense, direct afternoon sun which can scorch its leaves. While it tolerates more sun in cooler climates, consistent moisture becomes even more important. The plant prefers acidic soil, ideally with a pH between 4.5 and 7.0.
Soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. When planting, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but never waterlogged, as poor drainage can lead to root issues. Scarletta Fetterbush is suited for USDA hardiness zones 5 through 8. Optimal planting locations include woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as foundation plantings.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Consistent moisture is important for Scarletta Fetterbush, especially during dry periods after establishment. Deep, infrequent watering is more beneficial than shallow, frequent watering, promoting a robust root system.
Applying an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring can promote vigorous growth and vibrant foliage color. An additional application after spring flowering can also be beneficial. Scarletta Fetterbush requires little pruning, often maintaining an attractive shape naturally. Any necessary pruning to shape or remove dead/damaged branches should be performed after spring flowering. The plant is resistant to deer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Scarletta Fetterbush can exhibit issues indicating environmental stress. If the characteristic burgundy or red fall/winter foliage fails to develop vibrantly, it might be receiving too much shade. Adequate, indirect light exposure enhances seasonal color.
Leaf scorch or browning can occur from excessive direct sunlight or drought stress. Protection from harsh sun and consistent soil moisture helps prevent this. Yellowing leaves, a sign of chlorosis, may point to high soil pH or nutrient deficiencies.
Testing soil pH and amending it to be more acidic, or applying appropriate fertilizer, can correct this. Poor growth can be attributed to unsuitable soil conditions, insufficient watering, or nutrient deficiencies. Addressing these needs improves plant vigor.