Leucothoe fontanesiana Zeblid Scarletta

Common Name:
Scarletta Leucothoe

Description:
Leucothoe fontanesiana ‘Zeblid’, commonly sold as Scarletta Leucothoe, is a compact evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant year-round foliage colour and graceful arching habit. New growth emerges in rich shades of crimson, burgundy, and bronze before maturing to glossy deep green, with foliage intensifying again to brilliant red and purple tones during cooler weather. In spring, small clusters of delicate white bell-shaped flowers hang beneath the stems, adding subtle seasonal interest. This hardy ornamental shrub thrives in Melbourne’s temperate climate when planted in moist, well-drained acidic soil enriched with organic matter. It performs best in part shade to full shade, where the foliage colour remains lush and vibrant without scorching. Scarletta is ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, mass planting, and decorative pots, offering strong foliage contrast and low-maintenance appeal throughout the year.

Form:

• Shrub - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: 0.6–1 m
• Width: 0.8–1.2 m

Aspect:

• Part Shade
• Full Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• White

Key Attributes:

• Evergreen
• Feature Foliage
• Perennial
• Suitable for Pots
• Suitable for Woodland Gardens

Toxicity:

• Toxic to humans and pets if ingested.
• May cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, and gastrointestinal irritation due to grayanotoxins.

Companion Plants:

• Azalea
• Camellia
• Clivia
• Helleborus
• Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa)
• Pieris
• Rhododendron
• Skimmia
• Woodland ferns