October Plant of the Month – Fothergilla

The fall colors look spectacular this year at the arboretum. One of the more noteworthy specimens is the Mountain Witch Alder or Fothergilla major, pictured above. Fothergilla boasts beautiful, frilly blooms in the spring before leafing out. Lush green foliage throughout the summer and fall foliage that can range from fiery orange to a deep burgundy.

Fothergilla major is native to the southern United States, specifically Appalachia, preferring ravines, rich forests, and stream banks. Fothergilla gardenii, another attractive Fothergilla species, is also native to the southern United States and Appalachia but grows in moist bogs and savannas. Both Fothergilla species have a preference for acidic, well-draining soil. 

When visiting the arboretum, there are fothergilla scattered throughout the formal gardens, some of the most beautiful specimens are along the path under our Dawn Redwoods.