How to identify Mountain fetterbush (Pieris floribunda)

Photo By Maja Dumat , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

How to identify Mountain fetterbush (Pieris floribunda)

Mountain fetterbush, also known as Mountain andromeda

Mountain fetterbush is an evergreen shrub characterized by its dark, glossy leaves and a compact growth habit. This plant typically displays its dense foliage throughout the year, providing visual interest in all seasons. In the fall, it develops conspicuous flower buds that prepare to bloom, lending an ornamental quality. Generally, mountain fetterbush achieves a state of robust health when shielded from harsh, direct winter sunlight and protected against strong winds. It is important to note that mountain fetterbush performs well in colder climates and is known for its considerable frost resistance. However, it can suffer from winter burn if conditions are too harsh. Its preference for cooler environments also means that it does not tolerate high temperatures and humidity well.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Shrub

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Mountain fetterbush

Glossy dark green lanceolate leaves, 1.5-3 inches (4-8 cm) long, with ciliate margins.

Terminal white urn-shaped flowers, 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) long, in clusters from May to June.

Small brown fruit capsules, under an inch (2-3 cm) long, splitting open in autumn.

Rugged trunk with vertical bark strips, grey-brown to reddish-brown, slender diameter.

Evergreen shrub with dense foliage year-round, frost-resistant, prefers cooler climates.

Detailed Traits of Mountain fetterbush

Leaf Features

The leaves of mountain fetterbush are evergreen, lanceolate, and measure approximately 1.5 to 3 inches (4 to 8 cm) in length. They exhibit a glossy dark green upper surface and a paler underside. The leaf margins are finely ciliate, adding a delicate fringe along the edge. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stems and display a prominent central vein with subtle secondary veins. The texture is smooth and leathery, contributing to their durability and aesthetic appeal.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Mountain fetterbush features terminal, erect clusters of flowers that bloom from May to June. Each flower is inverted urn-shaped with five short lobes that spread outward. The flowers typically measure about 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) in length. They are white and exhibit a delicate and understated beauty. These blossoms have a subtle scent that can be appreciated up close, making them a noticeable feature for identification during their blooming period.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of mountain fetterbush manifests as small brown capsules, which typically come to prominence from August to October. These dry capsules may be of interest to plant enthusiasts due to their distinctive autumnal display. Measuring just under an inch (2-3 cm) in length, the tiny capsules contain numerous minute seeds. Over time, the mature fruit splits open to release these seeds, a process which is essential for the natural propagation of mountain fetterbush. The capsules' texture and hue are characteristic for identification, with a hardened exterior and a rich brown coloration that blends with the fall foliage.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

More Plants You May Like and How to Identify Them

Cape jasmine

Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.

Golden pothos

The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.

Tomato

Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.

Pepper

The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.

Swiss cheese plant

The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.

Bigleaf hydrangea

The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.