Fothergilla - Witch Alder
Scientific Description: Fothergilla or Witch Alder – (Fothergilla major and other species and cultivars) – both the dwarf and the standard species add amazing autumnal color to any garden. These species (F. gardenia and F. major) are native to the Southeast U.S. and are in the witch-hazel family (Hamamelidaceae). They are perennial, deciduous, multi- stemmed shrubs that prefer hardiness Zones 5 – 8, and grow to a height of 3 to 5 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide.
Image above from Hannah Lieffring
The flowers of Fothergilla, which bloom in April and May, are showy, fragrant and resemble bottle-brushes. After flowering, it’s fruit capsules that hold two seeds each, begin to ripen. In autumn, once the capsules dry, they explosively rupture - dispersing seeds to the surrounding area.
Fothergilla grows best in full sun to partial shade, organically rich, well-drained soil, and requires a medium amount of water. Other than occasional pruning to maintain a desired form, they require minimal maintenance. This shrubs’ autumn foliage produces some of the best fall colors – scarlet red, yellow, orange.
Fothergilla is relatively pest/disease free, however the stress of growing in full sun without adequate water may increase its susceptibility to leaf spot, a fungal pathogen that can cause leaves to drop. If this happens, all dropped leaves and stems should be raked and either burned or disposed of in a manner that won’t promote re-infection or spread to other plants.
Habitat Value: Both bees and butterflies use Fothergilla’s fragrant flowers for nectar and the leaves provide shelter for birds. Some species of caterpillar eat the leaves and small mammals and birds consume the fruit and seeds.
Landscape Value: Fothergilla is a useful and popular species to use in a variety of settings, both formal or informal. It does well as a hedge species delineating a path, foundation or other garden area, as well as a stand-alone specimen. It’s a wonderful addition to “naturalistic'' plantings such as woodland edges. With its value to bees and butterflies, it’s ease in growing, as well as it’s three-season attractiveness - this species is an excellent plant to grow.
Both John Manion, Arboretum Curator, and Charlie Belin, Volunteer, contributed to this piece.
Great fall color photo courtesy Matt Whitaker.