Fothergilla major
mountain witch alder
Fragrant, white, bottlebrush-like flowers appear in May and June just as the lustrous, dark green leaves start to unfurl. In autumn the foliage turns bonfire shades of red, orange and yellow. This low-maintenance, deciduous shrub looks wonderful at the edge of a woodland area, where it will catch some sun, or in the middle of a shrub border.
Fothergilla major is happiest in acid soil, and although it will tolerate partial shade, both the spectacular autumn colour and flowers are superior when grown in full sun.
Fothergilla major is happiest in acid soil, and although it will tolerate partial shade, both the spectacular autumn colour and flowers are superior when grown in full sun.
How to care for Fothergilla major:
Plant in acidic, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil, ideally in full sun or light shade to bring out the best autumn colour. Water regularly during dry spells while the plant establishes, and apply an annual mulch of leafmould or composted pine needles in spring to maintain soil moisture and acidity.
Prune lightly in February or March, removing any dead, damaged or crossing branches, but avoid hard pruning as this shrub flowers on old wood.
Prune lightly in February or March, removing any dead, damaged or crossing branches, but avoid hard pruning as this shrub flowers on old wood.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
2.5m
Eventual spread:
2m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
12 litre pot | 25 - 45cm tall
£89.99
shipped within 2 weeks
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