About
Pieris formosa, the Taiwan pieris, is a large, upright, evergreen shrub with glossy, dark-green leaves up to 10 cm long. In spring the young foliage is a striking bronze, and small, white, waxy flowers are produced in large sprays at the ends of the branches. A handsome and ornamental shrub for a sheltered, moist, partly shaded, acid garden.
About the genus
Pieris are compact, evergreen shrubs with leathery, dark-green leaves � often brightly coloured when young � and small, white, urn-shaped flowers in panicles in spring. Excellent shrubs for sheltered, moist, acid gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toHimalaya, W China
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
CultivationGrows well in acidic, moderately fertile, humus-rich soil but may need some protection in winter when young
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in spring or autumn, or 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