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Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble)

In Stock • Dispatched from our nursery

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Smaller sizes establish quickly • Larger sizes give a instant impact

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Exceptional plants, better value

Mix & match • Create your own combination • Pot sizes subject to availability

P9(9cm Pot)

1 Litre(13cm Pot)

3+ plants

£28.00

£33.00

Save 5%

6+ plants

Most Popular!

£55.00

£65.00

Save 10%

9+ plants

£80.00

£95.00

Save 15%

*Only includes new for 2026 varieties • to see a full list of included plants click here*

Exceptional plants, better value

Mix & match • Create your own combination

P9 (9cm)

1 Litre

3+ plants

£28.00

£33.00

Save 5%

6+ plants

Most popular!

£55.00

£65.00

Save 10%

9+ plants 

£80.00

£95.00

Save 15%

*Only includes new for 2026 varieties • to see a full list of included plants click here*

More must-have additions for your garden

Plant information

Plant Description

Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ is an attractive evergreen shrub prized for its glossy foliage and exceptional year-round colour. New growth emerges vibrant red and bronze, maturing to deep green before turning fiery shades of crimson and purple in autumn and winter. Its elegant, arching habit makes it ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or containers. Thriving in partial to full shade, ‘Firestar’ prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil and is fully hardy once established. Low maintenance and visually striking, it provides long-lasting structure, seasonal interest, and rich colour even in shaded areas.

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🌿 How to Care for Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble)

How do I prune Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble)?
Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble) should be left through the winter, as the dead wood protects them from frost. They can be pruned in early spring, and more vigorous varieties may be trimmed again around June.
Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble) can be susceptible to aphids, capsid bugs, whitefly, sage leafhoppers, and glasshouse red spider mites. Additionally, fungal issues like grey mould (Botrytis) can develop in cool and damp conditions, especially during overwintering.
Water Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble) regularly during dry spells, particularly newly planted ones. Established hardy salvias are drought-tolerant but benefit from deep watering during prolonged hot periods. Avoid waterlogging, as it can cause root rot.
Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble) require light feeding in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser or compost. Tender salvias benefit from fertilisation every 2–4 weeks during the growing season using a liquid feed for flowering plants. Over-fertilising should be avoided, as it can encourage foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Propagation of Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble)is prohibited without a licence
Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble) should be trimmed around April or May, a technique often called the “Chelsea Chop,” once new shoots start to appear. Cut back to the fresh growth, and continue deadheading throughout the season. Vigorous varieties can be pruned again in July to encourage bushier, greener plants rather than tall, woody stems. Salvias should not be cut back in autumn, as leaving the foliage intact helps protect the plant from frost.
Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble) moderately drought-tolerant once established, thriving in well-drained soil and full sun. Tender salvias are less drought-tolerant and require more consistent watering.
Leucothoe walteri ‘Firestar’ (Dog Hobble) performs well in UK gardens if given full sun and free-draining soil. It’s hardy in most areas, flowers for months in summer and autumn, and suits borders or containers. Avoid winter wet and prune lightly in spring.

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