Compared to other doghobble species, coast leucothoe or doghobble (Leucothoe axillaris) is a best choice for Southern U.S. landscapes (USDA zones 6 -9). This species is native to open woodland areas of the Southeastern U.S. The species grows along woodland slopes usually nearby a water source. However, its roots do not tolerate perennially damp ground.
Doghobbles are low-growing evergreen shrubs or ground covers. They exhibit a low, wide spreading form and oval, leathery, toothed dark green leaves. They grow 2-4 feet tall and 3-6 feet wide and are possible substitutes for boxwoods in moderately shady areas. In mid-spring shrubs are covered with showy clusters of urn-shaped white to pink flushed flowers.
One to two hours of direct morning sun is beneficial in northerly areas (zone 6 – 7a). In southerly climes (zones 7b-9), foliage may burn in the winter sun under deciduous shade. The arching dark green glossy foliage often turns bronze in cold habitats. Shrubs withstand heat and humidity. Doghobbles grow in a humus-rich, acidic, well-drained soil.
Flowers form along axillary branches as droopy spikes of white waxy bell flowers that are lightly fragrant. Branches grow zig-zagged at the tips and the lance-shaped, dark-green, glossy foliage turns red-green and purple in winter.
In highly humid regions of the U.S., 1-2 hours of direct early morning sunlight discourages leaf spotting. Doghobbles do not tolerate droughty soils or drying winds. Every 5-6 years, rejuvenate shrubs by cutting them to the ground after flowering.
After spring bloom, feed with any acid based fertilizer recommended to azaleas and rhododendrons. Mulch with acidifying coverings like pine needles and pine chips to keep roots cool and weed-free. Doghobble is highly deer resistant.
Wide plant spacings and good air circulation are keys to avoiding leaf spotting issues. Anthracnose leaf spot, tar spot, powdery mildew, leaf gall, lace bugs, and scale insects are occasional problems. Coast leucothoes tend to be less leafspot susceptible.
Posted in 
