Fothergilla gardenii aka Dwarf Witch Alder

Fothergilla gardenii, also known as witch alder, dwarf fothergilla, American wych hazel, and dwarf witchalder, is a deciduous shrub in the Hamamelidaceae family. It is one of two species in the genus Fothergilla. This garden shrub offers showy flowers in spring and spectacular fall foliage. The Dwarf Fothergilla, in particular, serves a dual purpose, adding value to the landscape in both seasons. It is a dense, bushy shrub with oval blue-green leaves that turn bright red, orange, and yellow in autumn. Fragrant flower spikes, up to 4cm long, bear small white flowers with long stamens in spring before the leaves emerge. The plant also has fruits, although they are small and insignificant. This versatile shrub is slow-growing, reaching a height of 2-3 ft (60-90 cm) and a width of 3-4 ft (90-120 cm). Its unique fragrance is a point of attraction for growers seeking unusual plants, making it a valuable ornamental border for gardens.