Large Fothergilla Cultivar

Fothergilla x intermedia 'Mt. Airy'

$23.00

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 4-8

The native Fothergilla species were choice but scarcely available garden shrubs when Woodlanders first began to offer them in 1980. A hybrid of F. gardenii x major, this selection found by Dr. Mike Dirr in Mt. Airy Arboretum in Cincinnati, OH is now widely grown and available. An excellent garden shrub with large white bottlebrush flowers and excellent yellow/orange/red fall color. Plant in sun or semi-shade in good well-drained soil.

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

PLANT DETAILS

Hardiness Zones: 4 - 8

Soil: Well-drained

Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade

Seasonal Behavior: Deciduous

Growth Rate: Slow

Height at Maturity: 4 - 6 Feet

Spread at Maturity: 3 - 5 Feet

Foliage: The leaves are dark green in spring and summer, turning brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall.

Flowers: Produces fragrant, bottlebrush-like white flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge. The flowers are rich in nectar and attract pollinators like bees.

2 inches by 1.75 inches long, bottlebrush inflorescences, cream stamens, yellow antlers, fragrant, late spring

Light Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade. For optimal flowering and foliage color, provide at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate partial shade, but the best fall color and flower production occur in full sun.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil. The ideal pH range is between 5.5 and 6.5. Fothergilla major 'Mt. Airy' prefers loamy soil rich in organic matter, but it can adapt to sandy or clay soils as long as they drain well. Amending the soil with compost can improve its fertility and structure.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during the establishment period. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 4-8. This shrub is well-suited to temperate climates and can withstand cold winters. It tolerates a range of humidity levels, making it adaptable to both dry and humid conditions. Protect the plant from harsh winds, which can dry out the foliage in winter.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and flowering. Additional applications are usually unnecessary if the soil is rich in organic matter. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as needed. Light pruning helps maintain a tidy appearance and encourages better air circulation. Fothergilla major 'Mt. Airy' has a naturally attractive form, so minimal pruning is often sufficient.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant and not prone to serious diseases. Ensure good air circulation to prevent potential fungal issues like powdery mildew. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pests, such as aphids or scale insects, and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.

F.A.Q.

The How, What, Where, Who

What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
How Do I Set Up A Subscription Order?

We are not currently offering subscription options. We will deliver products to you as soon as reasonably possible. Orders are usually dispatched between 1-3 days from the date of the order being placed. Please contact us our customer service team if your delivery has not been received within the dates described.