Large fothergilla (Fothergilla major), which is native to the Allegheny Mountains, grows into a rounded or upright shrub 4 to 6 feet tall. Because it is multistemmed with closely borne oval leaves, it has a dense appearance. White and yellowish flowers look like small bottlebrushes and have no petals (the showy portion is the spiky male stamens). This plant blooms from April to mid-May with a honey scent. It prefers rich, humus-y soil that tends toward the acidic. Large fothergilla is wonderful near a patio or a walk where there is foot traffic; it brings three seasons of interest to the garden: lovely spring flowers, leathery green summer foliage, and brilliantly tricolored autumn foliage—stunning color for a tall border. Visit the Buehler Enabling Garden to see a nice specimen.