Photo: Salicyna · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Leucothoe
Leucothoe brings gracefully arching stems clothed in glossy, lance-shaped leaves that shift from deep green to rich burgundy and bronze in cooler months. Variegated 'Rainbow' forms add cream, pink and coral tints, giving florists a foliage that doubles as colour. Its natural curve lends flowing movement to bouquets, garlands and cascading designs. Hardy and long-lasting, it works year-round but shines in autumn and winter palettes.
| Family | Ericaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Southeastern United States |
| Peak season | October, November, December |
| Availability | January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December |
| Stem length | 30–60 cm |
| Vase life | 7–14 days |
| Colors | green, burgundy, bronze, variegated |
| Price tier | mid |
Cut and lightly split the woody stem ends, then strip the leaves from the lower stem. Give a deep drink of cool water for several hours before arranging. Leucothoe is durable and conditions easily; keep it cold to intensify its red tones. Recut and refresh the water to prolong its vase life.
- •Split woody stem ends
- •Strip lower foliage
- •Give a deep cool drink
- •Keep cold to deepen red tones
- •Use the natural curve for movement
Bouquet Builder — by Lacy BirdDesign the bouquet. See it as a photo.
Botanical reference
- Common name
- Dog-hobble
- Also known as
- dog hobble, drooping leucothoe, switch ivy, fetterbush, Andromeda catesbei, Andromeda fontanesiana, Andromeda lanceolata, Leucothoe axillaris editorum, Leucothoe catesbaei rollisonii, Leucothoe editorum
- Distribution
- Alabama, Georgia, North America, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia
Open-data sources: GBIF, Wikidata (CC0/CC BY)
Frequently asked questions
When is Leucothoe in season?
Leucothoe peaks in October, November, December, and florists can usually source it January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December. Availability shifts by region and greenhouse supply.
How long does Leucothoe last in a vase?
Expect 7–14 days with proper conditioning — a clean vase, fresh water every couple of days, flower food, and a cool spot away from ripening fruit and direct heat.
What can I use instead of Leucothoe?
Good substitutes for Leucothoe include Salal, Pistacia, Ruscus. Match on look, colour and season — our substitute finder ranks the closest alternatives.
What does Leucothoe symbolise?
Leucothoe is associated with grace, transformation, resilience, natural elegance.
How do you care for cut Leucothoe?
Split woody stem ends
Related flowers
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Lacy Bird Flower Encyclopedia — “Leucothoe”. https://lacybird.com/flowers/leucothoe/<a href="https://lacybird.com/flowers/leucothoe/">Lacy Bird Flower Encyclopedia — Leucothoe</a>