Agarista populifolia

Native to FL, GA, NC and SC and known by many common names, including Florida hobblebush, Agarista populifolia is a large multi-stemmed evergreen shrub in the heather family, with reddish new growth that matures into glossy deep green leaves. It has small fragrant bell-shape white flowers that grow underneath its bowed branches in spring (May-June in NC). The leaves are highly poisonous to humans and animals, so site this plant carefully.

Hardy from USDA zones 7a to 9b, it prefers moist to wet, acidic organic soils and part-shade to deep shade. It has a dense growth habit with multiple stems and arching branches and can grow up to 12 feet high and 6 feet wide unless it is pruned.

 If you don't have pets or kids and need something evergreen and deer resistant for a shady spot, then this could be the plant for your garden!