Fothergilla


Fothergilla is a genus of two to four species of flowering plants in the family Hamamelidaceae, native to woodland and swamps of the southeastern United States.
They are low-growing deciduous shrubs growing to tall with downy twigs. The brush-like flowers are produced before the leaves in spring on terminal spikes; they do not have any petals, but a conspicuous cluster of white stamens 2–3 cm long. The leaves are alternate, broad ovoid, 4–10 cm long and 3–8 cm broad, with a coarsely toothed margin; they are noted for their brilliant orange or red fall colors.

Species

Four species are accepted.
  • Fothergilla gardenii – dwarf witch alder
  • †Fothergilla malloryi
  • Fothergilla latifolia – large witch alder
  • Fothergilla milleri
  • ''Fothergilla parvifolia''

    Etymology

The genus was named in honor of the English physician and plant collector Dr. John Fothergill of Stratford, Essex, who was known for introducing American plants to Britain.

Cultivation and uses

Fothergillas are grown as ornamental plants for their spring flowers and fall foliage color. They are slow-growing, rarely exceeding 1–2 m tall in cultivation. The hybrid cultivar Fothergilla × intermedia 'Mount Airy' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.