This week... Pieris

This acid-loving evergreen provides months of interest with new growth and flowers

PIERIS are easy-to-grow, cold hardy, evergreen shrubs whose dark, fingered foliage is attractive year round. The plants develop into well-branched and well-furnished, more or less rounded shrubs with two main colourful features, as well as other attributes.

In winter and early spring, all pieris develop branched clusters of buds, the red-tinted varieties being especially pretty. Then, in spring, the buds open to nodding white flowers, very like those of lily-of-the-valley, although some are blushed, pink or red.

At the same time, many varieties of pieris feature new growth that is brightred or richly bronzed, often emerging at the same time as the white flowers, creating a striking spring picture.

Planting pieris

When to plant

Most pieris are planted at flowering time in spring, partly because that is the time when they look so tempting in the garden centre. Mail-order nurseries also send them out for spring planting across the country.

Where to plant 

Well-drained, acid soil – preferably humus rich – is a must, as pieris will not take waterlogged conditions or limey soil. Pieris enjoy full sun in cooler areas, while in warmer regions they prefer morning sun with afternoon shade or dappled shade all day.

How to plant 

Pieris need no special planting treatment, although it is important not to allow them to dry out in their first summer. It is also important, when you add humus to the planting hole, to choose a material that is lime-free. Anything suitable for rhododendrons and azaleas is ideal.

How to choose pieris