Fothergilla intermedia Red Licorice

The Fothergilla x intermedia 'Red Licorice' is a hybrid variety of Fothergilla major that stands out for its smaller leaves compared to the species and a particularly compact habit. But what earns it its varietal name is the flamboyant scarlet red colour of its foliage once autumn comes. It is a rather small bush, suitable for gardens of any size, and interesting for several reasons. In spring, with a honey scent, it offers a flowering of white bottlebrushes on its still bare branches. Comfortable in rather dry and shady conditions, it does not tolerate limestone.

Originating from North America, Fothergilla is a bush classified in the Hamamelidaceae family. There are only two species of fothergilla: the large fothergilla, Fothergilla major and the dwarf fothergilla, F. gardenii. The two species are almost identical, except for the size of the flowers and leaves and the overall dimensions of the bushes. The plant has an upright habit and slow growth. The Fothergilla major rarely exceeds 2 m (7ft) in height and 1.50 m (5ft) in width. It grows in the mountains of South and North Carolina in fairly dry, acidic, semi-shady soil conditions.

Fothergilla has a bushy, compact, yet flexible habit. Its growth is slow. Its deciduous foliage somewhat resembles that of the hazelnut. It consists of rhomboidal, downy, embossed leaves with prominent veins, initially light green, then darkening in summer. They turn colourful in autumn, filling the garden with sumptuous hues. Its flowers, in conical bottlebrushes measuring 3.5 cm (1in) in length, white and scented, are as delightful as its colourful foliage. They abundantly appear on the grey, bare branches during April-May. Each flower head consists of numerous stamen-bearing flowers nestled in a green-to-cream calyx. The colour varies from white to cream, with the tip of the 'bottlebrush' being chartreuse green.

The Fothergilla intermedia 'Red Licorice' reaches a maximum height of 1 m (3ft) at maturity and a width of 90 cm (35in). It distinguishes itself from other cultivars with smaller foliage and a compact habit. Its autumn colouration is distinctive, ranging from beautiful scarlet red to cherry red.

This 'Red Licorice' cultivar thrives in semi-shade. It prefers limestone-poor, fresh, light soils but can tolerate slightly drier soil. It is, therefore, more suitable for a location at the foot of larger bushes or under tall trees. Plant it on the edge of a woodland, in a bed of acid-loving plants, in the company of Daphnes, Pieris, and Sarcococca or Autumn Camellias. Plant Heucheras with a similar shade to its beautiful autumn colouration at its feet, which will create a beautiful echo when the time comes. Winter heathers or hellebores are also good companions.