About
Pieris japonica, the lily-of-the-valley bush, is a slow-growing, bushy, evergreen shrub to 4 m with narrowly ovate, slightly toothed, glossy-green leaves sometimes tinted copper when young. Pendent clusters of small, scented, urn-shaped, white flowers are borne at the tips of the stems in spring. One of the most popular and reliable of all acid-loving evergreen shrubs.
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
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toE China, Japan, Taiwan
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. May need winter protection when young
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