Fetterbush
Leucothoe fontanesiana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Fetterbush is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
36"–72" H × 36"–72" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, GA, NC, NY and 3 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Fetterbush is an attractive evergreen shrub with arching branches and glossy, dark green leaves that often turn bronze-purple in winter. In spring, it produces drooping clusters of small, fragrant white or pink bell-shaped flowers along the stems.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fetterbush is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The spring flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies during early season blooming. The evergreen foliage offers year-round shelter for small birds and wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Fetterbush and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.