Leucothoe fontanesiana

North America to East Asia.

Switch ivy is a runner-forming small shrub. It usually reaches a height of 1 - 2 m and grows to a width of approx. 1.5 - 3 m.

The evergreen leaves of the Switch ivy are dark green, lanceolate, glossy and toothed. Switch ivy turns bright red in autumn.

The white, bell-shaped flowers of Switch ivy appear in clusters in May.

Leucothoe fontanesiana is a shallow-rooting plant.

Preferred location in semi-shady to shady position.

The Switch ivy has good frost hardiness.

Normal soil.

Solitary, group planting, bog bed

The plant has a medium water requirement.

- Hardy but frost-sensitive potted plants must be winterised before the first cold days. To do this, the pot can be wrapped with fleece, coconut or straw mats, jute or bubble wrap. Evergreen plants also need to be watered on frost-free winter days.
- Watering less frequently, but thoroughly and thoroughly, encourages the plant roots to penetrate deeper into the soil. This helps the plant to survive periods of drought.

Container plants can be planted all year round, except when the soil is frozen and in summer heat (over 30°C).