Leucothoe Scarletta (‘Zeblid’)

Position: partial shadeSoil: moist, acidic soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: springHardiness: fully hardy

Long, slim, glossy leaves emerge dark maroon, turning greener as they mature and then taking on lovely bronze and wine tints in the autumn. Although it prefers partial shade, the leaves of this spreading, evergreen shrub look almost metallic in sun. It forms an attractive dome of dense foliage and if kept low, makes ideal groundcover in acid soil. In a pot, it needs to be planted in ericaceous compost.

Garden care: Minimal pruning is required. Remove misplaced, dead or diseased branches in late spring.