Fothergilla xintermedia 'Blue Mist' Blue Fothergilla

Fothergilla major ‘Blue Mist’ is an outstanding compact shrub prized for its unique powdery blue foliage and fragrant spring flowers. In early spring, upright bottlebrush-like white blooms appear before or as the leaves emerge, filling the garden with a sweet, honey-like fragrance while attracting pollinators. As the season progresses, the distinctive blue-gray foliage provides a refreshing contrast to neighboring plants and remains attractive throughout summer. In autumn, the leaves transform into a spectacular blend of brilliant yellow, orange, and scarlet, offering one of the finest fall displays of any native shrub. Compact and easy to grow, ‘Blue Mist’ is an exceptional choice for adding multi-season beauty to smaller landscapes.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8

• Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, and densely branched

• 10-Year Size: Approximately 3 ft tall and 3 ft wide

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Flowers: Fragrant white bottlebrush blooms in early spring with a sweet honey-like scent

• Spring & Summer Foliage: Distinctive powdery blue-gray leaves

• Fall Color: Brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and scarlet

• Light: Morning sun to full sun; afternoon shade is beneficial in warmer climates

• Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic soil

• Best Uses: Foundation plantings, woodland gardens, borders, pollinator gardens, containers, and specimen plantings

• Best Feature: Unique blue foliage paired with fragrant spring flowers and exceptional fall color

• Garden Interest: Delivers outstanding four-season appeal with fragrant blooms, colorful foliage, and one of the best autumn displays among flowering shrubs

• Why You'll Love It: ‘Blue Mist’ offers a rare combination of powdery blue foliage, sweetly fragrant flowers, compact growth, and brilliant fall color, making it an exceptional shrub for gardens where season-long interest is desired.