About this product

Leucothoe 'Carinella'

Leucothoe 'Carinella'

Confirmed supplied format: 40–50 cm plant

Plant Highlights: Evergreen foliage with changing seasonal colour • Copper-red spring growth maturing to glossy green • Rich maroon-purple winter foliage • Compact shrub for shady gardens • Ideal for ericaceous borders and containers

Overview

Leucothoe 'Carinella' is a compact, slow-growing evergreen shrub prized for its outstanding foliage display throughout the year. Fresh new growth emerges in vibrant copper-red tones during spring, accompanied by graceful sprays of small, white, bell-shaped flowers. As the season progresses, the foliage matures to a glossy deep green before developing rich maroon and purple shades through autumn and winter, providing long-lasting colour even in the colder months.

Its naturally bushy, gently arching habit reaches approximately 60–100 cm in both height and spread, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, woodland planting and patio containers. It combines beautifully with rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and ferns, bringing structure and colourful foliage to shaded planting schemes.

Why We Love It

• Spectacular foliage changes colour through every season, providing year-round interest.

• Compact evergreen habit is easy to incorporate into gardens of all sizes.

• Delicate white spring flowers add an extra layer of seasonal appeal.

• Thrives in shady locations where many shrubs struggle to perform.

• Excellent choice for ericaceous beds, woodland gardens and decorative containers.

Plant Details

Growing Guide

Position

Grow in partial shade or full shade for the best foliage colour and healthiest growth. It will tolerate more sun where the soil remains evenly moist but should be protected from hot, drying afternoon sun.

Watering

Water regularly during the establishment period and continue to water during prolonged dry spells, particularly in containers or beneath trees where rainfall may be limited.

Soil

Plant in moist, humus-rich, well-drained acidic soil. Where natural soil is alkaline or chalky, grow in ericaceous compost or improve the planting area with suitable acid-loving plant compost.

Hardiness and Winter Care

Hardy throughout most of Ireland. Good drainage is important during winter, while a mulch of leaf mould or composted bark helps conserve moisture and maintain the acidic soil conditions the plant prefers.

Routine Care

Feed in spring with an ericaceous fertiliser to encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage colour. Pruning is rarely necessary; lightly trim after flowering if shaping is required and remove any damaged or dead shoots.

Perfect For

• Woodland and shaded garden borders.

• Planting beneath trees and larger shrubs.

• Ericaceous beds with rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas.

• Patio containers filled with ericaceous compost.

• Adding reliable evergreen colour and winter interest to smaller gardens.

Good to Know

The intensity of the foliage colour is influenced by the growing conditions. Acidic soil, consistent moisture and a sheltered position help produce the richest copper, green and maroon tones throughout the year.

Product Information

• Botanical Name: Leucothoe 'Carinella'

• Cultivar: 'Carinella'

• Supplied Format: 40–50 cm plant