Leucothoe - The White Goddess of Shrubs and Small Trees

Leucothoe is a genus of shrubs or small trees in the family Ericaceae, native to the Himalayas and southeastern Asia. The name Leucothoe is derived from the Greek words "leukos," meaning white, and "theos," meaning god, likely referring to the plant's white flowers.

Leucothoe species are evergreen or deciduous, with simple, alternate leaves that are often covered in a thick layer of scales. The flowers are small and white, with four petals and a prominent stamens. The fruit is a red or purple berry that contains several seeds. Leucothoe species are often used as ornamental plants in gardens and landscapes, and some species have been introduced to other parts of the world as invasive weeds.

Leucothoe is also sometimes spelled Leucoethiop, which is an older name for the genus that is no longer commonly used.