Pieris

Pieris are compact, small to medium-sized, evergreen shrubs with lance-shaped leaves. New growth is often shades of red, pink or bronze before maturing to deeper green. Some are variegated, giving a three-coloured foliage effect. In spring, they produce long clusters of small flowers reminiscent of lily-of-the-valley in shape, and sometimes fragrance. The individual bells may be white, or blush to dark pink.

They prefer partial shade, such as dappled shade from taller plants, and shelter from cold, drying winds. Soil should be moist but well-drained and acidic – ideally pH 5 to 6.

Alkaline soils, pH 7 and above, will result in poor growth and leaf yellowing. Full sun, especially in exposed sites, may scorch young foliage. Waterlogged conditions can lead to root problems.

Pieris belongs to the heather family, Ericaceae, as do rhododendrons and azaleas, and all require similar ericaceous growing conditions. The early spring flowers are an important nectar source for pollinators at a time when few other shrubs are in bloom.