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Eubotrys racemosa (Leucothoe racemosa)

Swamp dog-hobble

 

Eubotrys racemosa (formerly Leucothoe racemosa) is a graceful, arching deciduous shrub native to the acidic wetlands and woodland edges of New England. It prefers partial sun to dappled shade and moist, well-drained soils rich in humus. While adaptable, it performs best in environments mimicking its natural habitat—cool, acidic soils with consistent moisture.

 

Dog hobble pairs beautifully with fellow acid-loving natives like Ilex verticillata (Winterberry), Clethra alnifolia (Summersweet), and Osmunda cinnamomea (Cinnamon Fern), forming a layered and seasonally dynamic understory. Its nodding, bell-shaped white flowers bloom in late spring, attracting early-season pollinators such as Bombus spp. and small native bees.

 

Though not a heavy wildlife magnet, the plant’s dense form offers cover for ground-nesting birds and small mammals, while its modest fruit may occasionally be browsed by Turdus migratorius (American Robin) and Peromyscus leucopus (White-footed Mouse). Sweetbells offers understated ecological value and quiet beauty in woodland garden designs, especially where subtle structure and pollinator support are desired.

 

photo by Fritzflohrreynolds

Eubotrys racemosa (swamp dog-hobble)

$41.00Price
Quantity
Only 3 left in stock
  • type: Shrub
    sun needs: Part to full sun
    water needs: Moist to wet soil
    height: 3-8'
    plant spacing: 2-4'
    bloom time: May and June
    bloom color: white
  • Deer resistant (please note that does not mean deer proof).

    Great fall leaf color.

    Can grow in a rain garden setting

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