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Leucothoe axillaris. Anne Holmes, artist<\/p><\/div>\n
Waxy, bell-shaped clusters of white flowers form drooping spikes that attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators, so it does well in a butterfly or pollinator garden, as well as in a native or rock garden. The branches zig-zag toward the end and the lance-shaped, dark green, glossy leaves turn red-green and purple in winter.<\/p>\n
Doghobble prefers acidic, well-drained, humus-rich soil and can be grown in full sun, but must have good moisture. It does not tolerate drought or windy conditions and is best planted in a protected location and given good winter mulch.<\/p>\n
A word of caution: this plant has a high flammability rating and should not be planted within the defensible space of your home. Select plants with a low flammability rating for the sites nearest your home. Use doghobble in a woodland or naturalized area, on a slope or along a river bank as a specimen or hedge.<\/p>\n