The Mountain Witch Alder (Fothergilla major), is a slow-growing deciduous shrub that is native to southeastern America. It has won RHS awards for its bottle-brush white flowers, as well as its leaves that change from green to orange, red, and purple-red in the fall. It spreads in an upright habit and is virtually disease-free, although it needs full sun to part shade to remain in its best condition. The Fothergilla major belongs to the family Hamamelidaceae.
How to Plant and Grow
The Mountain Witch Alder is an easy-to-grow shrub that can be planted in a variety of locations. When planting in pots, keep in mind that this plant needs plenty of fertilizer and at least eight hours of sunlight each day. In the ground, mountain witch alder needs well-draining soil and water regularly, but avoid overwatering. The ideal soil should have a pH level of 6.5-7.5. Temperatures should remain between 15-24 degrees Celsius and the soil should be kept moist. An adequate amount of space is needed for the shrub to spread, as it grows up to 4 meters in height and width.
Meaning and Symbolism
The Mountain Witch Alder has spiritual and medicinal value. Its name comes from the Latin phrase “fother” which means old man, may be interpreted to mean wisdom and the life of the mountain. The White flowers of this shrub are significant of innocence and purity. This plant was widely used by Native American tribes to treat an array of ailments.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
In some old English folklore, Mountain Witch Alder is believed to unbind the tongue, freeing one to express themselves. This plant was and still is sacred to many Native American tribes for its natural healing ability. Witches have long been connected to this plant, due to its symbolic qualities of imparting truth, whilst also helping to keep secrets. In Christianity, Fothergilla major is viewed as a symbol of honesty and truth, with some theologies linking the white flowers to the Virgin Mary.
Flower Varieties and their Defining Characteristics
The Mountain Witch Alder includes two varieties: Fothergilla major and Fothergilla gardenii. Fothergilla major is the more commonly found variety, and it grows to up to 4 meters in height and width while producing white flowers with a scent reminiscent of sweet honey. Fothergilla gardenii is a smaller variety and only grows to a maximum of 1 meter in height and width. This variety is has bright yellow flowers, and its leaves take on a deep-red color in the autumn.
How to Pot and Repot
Mountain Witch Alder should be repotted every 3 or 4 years, or when the pot or soil appears to be deteriorating. The best time to repot is in the springtime, when the plant is at its healthiest and can adjust to changes much easier. First, use a spade to remove the plant from its existing pot, taking care to keep as much of its root system intact as possible. Gently brush off any dirt that is adhering to its roots and then prune away any dead or damaged growth. Place the plant into a new container with fresh soil and pack firmly but gently. Water the mountain witch alder thoroughly and continue to monitor for any further growth or needs.
How to Prune
To ensure that the Mountain Witch Alder is healthy, the plant needs pruning on a yearly basis. The best time to prune your shrub is in late winter or early spring, to prepare for new growth. Clip away any overgrown stems, as well as damaged or dead growth. Relocate or remove any branches that are growing too close together. To keep the shape of the shrub, or to regulate its size, begin pruning at the top of the shrub and then move downwards in a calculated motion. Make sure to finish pruning away at least six weeks before the growing season so that there are not too many open cuts on the plant when new growth begins.
How to Propagate
Mountain Witch Alder can be propagated by both semi-hardwood cuttings and by seeds. To propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings, find and select a cutting from a healthy stem, around 10-15 cm long. Prune away any stems from the cutting, leave the leaves on if possible, and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. After that, plant the cutting in moist soil, making sure to keep the soil damp but not wet. The cutting should take root in 4-6 weeks and be ready for transferring or planting outdoors. To propagate by seed, collect the seeds in late summer or early autumn and sow them in fresh, moist soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep in a warm, bright location. The germination process should take 3-4 weeks.
Common Pests and Diseases
The Mountain Witch Alder is generally resistant to any common pests and diseases, but can occasionally be susceptible to powdery mildew, aphids, and spider mites. To avoid any possible damage, periodically monitor the plant’s soil and leaves for any signs of these pests or diseases. If any disease develops, treat it with appropriate insecticides and fungicides. To avoid pests, look out for webbing and infested leaves – if any are found, move away infected plants, prune away dead branches, and use beneficial insects to keep the population in check.
Three Frequently Asked Questions About Fothergilla major
1. What type of light does Mountain Witch Alder need?
Mountain Witch Alder needs full sun to part shade to keep it looking its best.
2. How big does Mountain Witch Alder get when mature?
Mountain Witch Alder can grow up to 4 meters in both height and width.
3. When is the best time of year to plant Mountain Witch Alder?
The best time to plant the Mountain Witch Alder is in the summer season.
Fact Sheet
| Flower Name | Mountain Witch Alder and Fothergilla major |
|---|---|
| Family | Hamamelidaceae |
| Plant Type | Deciduous Shrub |
| Mature Size | Up to 4 meters in height and width |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to part shade |
| Soil Type | Well-draining soil |
| Soil pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Bloom Time | May to June |
| Flower Color | White |
| Hardiness Zones | 4 – 8 |
| Native Area | Southeastern America |
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