Swamp Sweetbells (Leucothoe racemosa) is a multi-stemmed, thicket-forming deciduous shrub that grows naturally along pond and lake margins, in swamps, and in other moist woodland habitats. In spring, ornamental white bell-to-urn-shaped flowers bloom in graceful 4-inch-long racemes. The blooms often persist into summer and may continue into early fall in warmer regions. Pointed green leaves with finely serrated margins provide attractive texture throughout the growing season before turning shades of red, yellow, and orange in fall. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Swamp Sweetbells is highly shade tolerant and makes an excellent choice for woodland gardens, understory plantings, and moist naturalized areas.
