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Public Plant Profile

Legend of the Fall® Fothergilla

Fothergilla x intermedia 'ALICE' (Legend of the Fall®)

Category: Deciduous Shrub • Fothergilla

Discover the Legend of the Fall® Fothergilla, a stunning plant with fragrant blooms and vibrant autumn colors.

Mature Height: 3-5 feet
Mature Width: 4-6 ft
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: Spring
Light: Part Sun/Part Shade
Zone: Zones 5-8
Maintenance: Low
Growth Rate: Moderate
Season of Interest: Multi-season
Foliage: Deciduous
Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Legend of the Fall® Fothergilla is a deciduous shrub known for its stunning fall foliage and fragrant white flowers in spring. It is a hybrid that combines the best traits of its parent species, providing year-round interest.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade with consistent moisture. Prefers well-drained, acidic soils.

Soil Preferences

Requires good drainage and moderate moisture; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH; adaptable to various soil types.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Watering Needs

Requires regular watering, especially during dry spells, to establish a strong root system.

Pruning Notes

Minimal pruning needed; remove any dead or damaged branches in late winter.

Fertilizing Notes

Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.

Common Issues

Generally pest-resistant but can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew in humid conditions.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenfoundation planting

Special Features

Fragrant flowersvibrant fall foliage

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant once established.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for adding seasonal interest and texture. Works well in mixed borders or as a focal point.

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Explore related plants, compare shape, texture, and overall planting style, and get a better feel for what may fit your own outdoor space.

Use this page to get a feel for where Legend of the Fall® Fothergilla may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Is Legend of the Fall® Fothergilla a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

Browse more plants or reach out and we will help you choose the right combination for your space.