Fetterbush
Lyonia lucida
Last reviewed: June 2026
Lyonia lucida (Fetterbush) is an evergreen shrub native to the southeastern United States from Virginia to Louisiana. It produces clusters of white, bell-shaped flowers from April through June.
Fetterbush is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (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.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Fetterbush as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
36"–96" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, FL, GA, LA and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Fetterbush is an evergreen native shrub with glossy leaves and clusters of small white or pink bell-shaped flowers in spring. It naturally grows in wet areas and prefers partial shade with consistent moisture. The plant maintains a dense, rounded form that can reach 3 to 8 feet in both height and width.
Growing Fetterbush
Grow Fetterbush in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 36 to 96 inches tall and spread 36 to 96 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fetterbush is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The nectar-rich spring blooms attract native bees and butterflies. The dense evergreen foliage provides year-round shelter for small birds and wildlife.
Common questions
- Where does Lyonia lucida naturally grow?
- Lyonia lucida is native to eight southeastern states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.
- When does Fetterbush bloom?
- Fetterbush typically blooms from April through June, producing small white or pinkish bell-shaped flowers in clusters.
- What pollinators visit Lyonia lucida?
- Fetterbush flowers attract bees and butterflies, which serve as important pollinators for this native shrub.
- What growing conditions does Fetterbush prefer?
- Lyonia lucida grows best in medium to high moisture conditions and can tolerate full sun to partial shade, making it adaptable to various garden settings.
- Is Fetterbush toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Fetterbush is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Fetterbush toxic to cats?
- Yes. Fetterbush is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Fetterbush toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Fetterbush as toxic to livestock.
- Is Fetterbush HOA-friendly?
- Fetterbush is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
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