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Public Plant Profile

Legend of the Small® Fothergilla

Fothergilla x intermedia 'NCFI1' (Legend of the Small®)

Category: Deciduous Shrub • Fothergilla

Discover the compact Legend of the Small® Fothergilla, perfect for foundation planting with fragrant blooms and stunning fall color.

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Mature Height: 2-3 feet

Mature Width: 2-3 feet

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

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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 Small® Fothergilla is a compact deciduous shrub known for its fragrant white flowers in spring and stunning fall foliage that turns vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Best sited in a location protected from strong winds.

Soil Preferences

Requires well-drained soil with moderate moisture. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH and adapts well to various soil types.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Watering Needs

Requires regular watering, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging.

Pruning Notes

Light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and encourages new growth.

Fertilizing Notes

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support growth.

Common Issues

May face issues with root rot in poorly drained soils and occasional pest infestations.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

foundation plantingspecimen

Special Features

Compact sizefragrant flowersattractive fall color

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant once established.

Notes from Our Designer

Ideal for small gardens or as a focal point. Provides seasonal interest with blooms and foliage.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Legend of the Small® 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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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Legend of the Small® 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

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