About
A compact, slow-growing evergreen shrub to around 2m high, with slightly glossy, lance-shaped leaves that emerge bright yellow-green and mature to dark emerald. Long sprays of small, scented, urn-shaped creamy white flowers open from dark reddish-purple buds in spring.
About the genus
Pieris are compact evergreen shrubs with leathery, dark green leaves, often brightly coloured when young, and small white urn-shaped flowers borne in panicles in spring
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, tortoises): Harmful if eaten - For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist but well drained, acid soil; will not tolerate chalk soils or waterlogging. Position in full sun or light shade, with protection from cold, drying winds, and mulch annually in autumn
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 8 (evergreens)
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer. Some bottom heat may be required
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to pieris lacebug
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), Phytophthora root rot, and fungal leaf spot