Switch Ivy Leucothoe Carinella = 'Zebekot'
ABOUT
Leucothoe Carinella 'Zebekot', often referred to simply as 'Zebekot', is an attractive shrub known for its decorative foliage and graceful growth habit. The plant boasts glossy, evergreen leaves that display a striking mix of colors. Each leaf is uniquely variegated with shades of green, cream, and sometimes pink, particularly when young or in the cooler months. The leaves commonly have a wavy, slightly undulating texture, which adds a dynamic visual appeal to the shrub. In addition to the appealing foliage, 'Zebekot' produces clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that typically bloom in the spring. The flowers are often white or pale pink, hanging delicately from arched branches, further enhancing the plant's ornamental value. The contrast between the vibrant leaves and the subtle flowers makes this plant a standout in any garden setting. The overall form of 'Zebekot' is dense and spreading, with branches that may gracefully arch or droop, creating an elegant, mounded appearance. It possesses a bushy nature, making it suitable for use in various landscape applications, including foundation plantings, borders, and as an underplanting in woodland settings. The combination of its exquisite leaf variegation and charming flowers gives 'Zebekot' multi-season interest, providing color and texture throughout the year.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ericaceae
Synonyms
Zebekot, Carinella Leucothoe
Common names
Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Girard's Rainbow', Agarista populifolia 'Girard's Rainbow'
ToxicityTo humans
Leucothoe, also known as Doghobble, Fetterbush or Drooping Laurel, can be toxic if ingested. It contains grayanotoxins which can affect humans if large quantities of the plant are eaten. Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, slowed heart rate, and in severe cases, respiratory issues. It is advisable to avoid ingesting any part of the plant and to seek medical attention if you suspect poisoning from Doghobble.
To pets
Doghobble is toxic to pets due to the presence of grayanotoxins. If a pet ingests a part of the Doghobble plant, they could exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, weakness, incoordination, and in serious cases, seizures or coma. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if you suspect your pet has ingested this plant, as prompt treatment is important to mitigate the effects of the toxin.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Varies
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: With its vibrant foliage and graceful growth habit, Leucothoe 'Zebekot' adds aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant is able to thrive in shady areas where other plants might not perform well, making it a versatile choice for different garden settings.
- Low Maintenance: Leucothoe 'Zebekot' requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Seasonal Interest: Its leaves often change colors with the seasons, providing visual interest throughout the year.
- Erosion Control: The plant's root system can help stabilize soil on slopes, reducing the risk of erosion.
- Wildlife Attraction: It can attract birds and other wildlife to the garden, which can aid in pollination and add a dynamic aspect to the ecosystem.
- Hardiness: Leucothoe 'Zebekot' is generally hardy and resistant to many common plant diseases, ensuring its longevity in the landscape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Displays: Leucothoe can be used in botanical art for its graceful arching stems and attractive foliage, making it an excellent subject for drawing or watercolor painting.
- Photography: Its distinctive leaves and form can serve as a beautiful subject for nature photographers looking to capture the essence of woodland plants.
- Education: It can be grown in school gardens or used in botany lessons to educate students about plant morphology and horticultural practices.
- Craft Material: The branches of Leucothoe can be used in crafting, such as making wreaths or other decorative items.
- Aquascaping: Although not an aquatic plant, Leucothoe can be used in terrariums and paludariums to create a backdrop that emulates a natural forested environment.
- Theme Gardens: Leucothoe can be used in thematic gardens, like fairy or gnome gardens, because of their enchanting woodland appearance.
- Insect Habitat: This plant can offer shelter to beneficial insects in the garden, promoting a healthy ecosystem.
- Feng Shui: Leucothoe can be implemented in Feng Shui garden designs to enhance the flow of positive energy due to its calming appearance.
- Backdrop Planting: Leucothoe works well as a backdrop for garden beds, supporting the visual display of shorter, more colorful foreground plants.
- Creative Containers: It can be used in creative container gardening for balconies or patios, giving a lush, leafy presence in small urban spaces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Leucothoe is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Leucothoe is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability: Leucothoe Carinella, also known as Dog Hobble, showcases an ability to thrive in various environments, symbolizing the capability to adjust and flourish under different circumstances.
- Resilience: Dog Hobble is a hardy plant that can survive in shade and resist pests, representing strength and the ability to bounce back from adversity.
- Protection: The plant’s dense growth habit provides shelter for wildlife, thus symbolizing safety and a haven for those in need.
- Endurance: Capable of withstanding tough conditions in the wild, Dog Hobble illustrates endurance, persistence, and the perseverance to carry on regardless of challenges.
WaterThe dog hobble prefers consistently moist soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil begins to dry out. Water thoroughly, applying enough water to wet the root zone. This usually translates to roughly 1 inch of water per week, but this can vary based on temperature and humidity. During hot, dry periods, increase the frequency of watering to prevent stress. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. It's best to use a watering can or hose to apply water directly to the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering to minimize leaf wetness and potential disease.
LightDog hobble thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it an excellent choice for a shaded garden spot or under the canopy of larger trees. It should be protected from intense afternoon sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. A location that receives dappled sunlight throughout the day is ideal for promoting healthy growth and foliage color.
TemperatureDog hobble is hardy and can withstand minimum temperatures down to around -10°F, catering well to temperate climates. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 80°F. It can survive short periods of higher temperatures, but prolonged exposure to heat above 90°F may cause stress and damage to the plant.
PruningDog hobble benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any damaged or diseased branches and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation. Pruning can also be performed after the plant blooms to keep it looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe ideal soil mix for the Dog Hobble 'Zebekot' should be rich, moist, and well-draining, with a mix of peat, pine bark, and perlite or sand. The soil pH should be acidic, ideally between 5.0 and 6.0.
RepottingThe Dog Hobble 'Zebekot' should generally be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Humidity & MistingThe Dog Hobble 'Zebekot' thrives best in high humidity levels, preferably between 50% and 70%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with high humidity.
Outdoor
Partial shade, sheltered, rich moist soil.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleLeucothoe Carinella 'Zebekot', commonly known as Dog Hobble, starts its life as a seed, often requiring stratification to break dormancy and germinate. Once the seed germinates, it develops into a seedling, characterized by the emergence of its first true leaves. As the seedling grows, it enters the vegetative stage where it forms a robust root system and foliage, but no flowers. This plant then reaches maturity and enters the flowering stage, where it produces small, urn-shaped flowers, typically in the spring. After pollination, the flowers develop into small capsules that contain seeds which, when mature, are dispersed into the surrounding environment. As a perennial, Dog Hobble continues this cycle annually, going through periods of dormancy in the winter and regrowth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Leucothoe fontanesiana 'Rainbow', commonly called Dog Hobble, is often propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings. This method typically involves taking cuttings from the plant during the late summer. A gardener would select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) piece, making sure that several leaves are present. The cut end of the stem is then dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The pot is kept in a warm, humid environment with indirect light until roots have formed, which usually takes several weeks. It's crucial to maintain consistent moisture during this period but also to avoid waterlogged conditions, which can cause the cuttings to rot.
