Leucothoe fontanesiana 'MAKIJAZ'PBR leucothoe
Leucothoe
Quite new in our gardens, leucothoe belongs to the same family as for example rhododendrons. It is becoming more and more popular as a hardy evergreen plant. Makijaz is a new variety from Poland and was bred by Michal Kalunzinsky. It is protected in Europe PBR EU 30742. Unauthorized propagation is prohibited.
Makijaz leucothoe is a small, mound-forming evergreen shrub with narrowly elliptic, mid green leaves that are marbled white. The ratio between white and green is quite irregular making every leaf unique. In spring new foliage emerges rich pink or bronze red, and in autumn and winter they turn various shades of burgundy purple. The flowers are small, formed in short racemes, and as they consume a lot of plant’s energy we recommend cutting back flowering branches to encourage new growths. It can also be pruned and trimmed any time from mid spring till late summer to keep it compact.
Being an ericaceous plant it loves the same soil type as rhodos and azaleas: light, acidic, evenly moist but well-drained soil with plenty of nutrients. This variety is resistant to common leucothoe fungi diseases. It can be grown in a patio container if watered regularly (but no saucer!). Fully hardy to approx -27°C (USDA zone 5b).
Last update 28-03-2013.
