Dwarf fothergilla

Fothergilla gardenii L.

Pet & Human Safety

People: Not researchedPets: Not on the ASPCA lists as we read them

Hazardous parts

Not yet checked.

Preparation

n/a

Hazard type

Not yet checked.

Hazard route

Not yet checked.

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

No ASPCA entry found.

Dogs, cats, horses: no source makes a pet toxicity statement.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

Get the app: coming soon

Care

Hardiness zones: USDA 5a to 8b per NC State Plant Toolbox; USDA 4 or 5 to 8 or 9 for the genus and hybrids, depending on type, per University of Wisconsin (not specific to this species)
Light: Full sun to part shade; afternoon shade in hot climates.
Water needs: moderate
Mature size: NC State text: 3 to 6 ft (0.9 to 1.8 m) tall and 2 to 6 ft (0.6 to 1.8 m) wide. NC State data box on the same page: 1.5 to 3 ft (0.5 to 0.9 m) tall and 2 to 4 ft (0.6 to 1.2 m) wide. University of Wisconsin: a rounded shrub 3 to 4 ft (0.9 to 1.2 m) tall with a wider spread if allowed to sucker.
Family: Hamamelidaceae (NC State, University of Wisconsin)
Where it comes from: NC State: coastal plains of the southern United States, in wet savannas, pocosins, baygalls and bogs. University of Wisconsin: the genus is native to woodlands and swamps of the southeastern US.