Care of the shrub Pieris japonica or Japanese andromeda |
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The genus Pieris, family Ericaceae, includes 5 species of shrubs native to Asia, North America and Cuba. The species are: Pieris japonica, Pieris formosa, Pieris cubensis, Pieris floribunda and Pieris swinhoei. Common names: Japanese andromeda, Lily-of-the-valley bush, Japanese pieris. This species is native to Far East. They are evergreen shrubs with a rounded bearing that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. The elegant leathery leaves are glossy dark green; when they sprout they acquire bronze tones. The flowers are small, slightly scented and appear in hanging clusters above the leaves. They bloom from late winter to early spring. They are used in borders, in bushy groups and as isolated specimens. It's important to know that the ingestion of its leaves, flowers or fruits is very toxic; it's not recommended to grow them in gardens where there are children. Pieris japonica can grow in direct sun or semi-shade exposures. They resist frost but not very hot summers. The soil must be well drained and contain abundant organic matter. Water frequently, without flooding, so that the substrate is always wet; wait for the substrate surface to dry before watering. Fertilize with manure or compost in the fall. Prune lightly after flowering to remove damaged branches and wilted flower stems. They are quite resistant to pests and diseases but can be attacked by aphids and mealybugs in case of prolonged drought. They are propagated from seeds sown in spring; the seeds of the fruits can be obtained in capsule form. |
Images of the shrub Pieris japonica or Japanese andromeda |
 Pieris japonica  Pieris japonica  Pieris japonica  Pieris japonica  Pieris japonica Little Heath  Pieris japonica Little Heath  Pieris japonica  Pieris japonica |