Pieris 'Firecrest'

RHS Plant Profile
pieris 'Firecrest'
pieris 'Firecrest' www.gardenworldimages.com

Synonyms

Pieris japonica 'Firecrest'

Award of Garden MeritPlants for pollinators
Shrubs

A large bushy evergreen shrub with broad leaves, bright red when young, later dark green. Flowers creamy-white, relatively large, in branched sprays in late winter and spring

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Ericaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Harmful 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
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
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows well in acidic, moderately fertile, humus-rich soil but may need some protection in winter when young

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer. Some bottom heat may be required

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 8

Pests

May be susceptible to pieris lacebug

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), Phytophthora root rot, and fungal leaf spot