Fothergilla (witch alder) is a genus of two to four species of flowering plants in the family Hamamelidaceae, native to woodland and swamps of the southeastern United States.
They are low-growing deciduous shrubs growing to tall with downy twigs. The brush-like flowers are produced before the leaves in spring on terminal spikes; they do not have any petals, but a conspicuous cluster of white stamens 2âÂÂ3 cm long. The leaves are alternate, broad ovoid, 4âÂÂ10 cm long and 3âÂÂ8 cm broad, with a coarsely toothed margin; they are noted for their brilliant orange or red fall colors.
Four species are accepted.
The genus was named in honor of the English physician and plant collector Dr. John Fothergill (1712-1780) of Stratford, Essex, who was known for introducing American plants to Britain.
Fothergillas are grown as ornamental plants for their spring flowers and fall foliage color. They are slow-growing, rarely exceeding 1âÂÂ2 m tall in cultivation. The hybrid cultivar Fothergilla àintermedia 'Mount Airy' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.