Japanese pieris - Pieris japonica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Japanese pieris

Also known as: Japanese andromeda

Japanese pieris (Pieris japonica) is an evergreen shrub that produces chains of small flowers. But be careful, it can cause seizures and temporary blindness if consumed by animals or people. Even so, is sometimes grown in the foundation portion of gardens along with other shrubs.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese pieris (Pieris japonica)

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Mid winter, Late winter

Bloom Time

Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

1 m to 4 m

Plant Height

4 m

Spread

Green, Red, White, Variegated

Leaf Color

5 mm to 8 mm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

White, Pink, Red

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Japanese pieris

Distribution of Japanese pieris

Distribution Map

Japanese pieris is native to China, Japan, Russia and parts of Southeast Asia, where it can be found growing in mountainous forest areas. Japanese pieris is planted throughout its native region and in the Americas as an ornamental garden and landscaping plant. It is poisonous for humans and many mammals.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Open forests in mountains, thickets

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Japanese pieris is a popular plant in yards and as a focal point in large gardens, prized for its bronzed foliage and showy pink and white winter flowers. The dense shrub is often used to create natural privacy barriers and it is an essential plant in any winter garden. Plant amaryllis with the flowering shrub for contrasting color in the early spring.

Symbolism

Happy

Name Story

Japanese pieris: The genus name Pieris, derives from Piera in Greek. According to Greek mythology, Piera is the home of the Muses. This is enough to demonstrate how beautiful the plant is. Its foliage changes colors throughout the seasons and dangling clusters of colorful flower buds appear in late summer or fall. This plant originates from Japan as well, this is then called Japanese pieris.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Japanese pieris, including the following common varieties :

Japanese pieris 'Blush'Japanese pieris 'Flaming Silver'Japanese pieris 'White Rim'Japanese pieris 'Pink Delight'Japanese pieris 'Red Head'Japanese pieris 'Mountain Fire'Japanese pieris 'Purity'Japanese pieris 'Valley Valentine'Japanese pieris 'Cavatine'Japanese pieris 'Katsura'Japanese pieris 'Little Heath Green'Japanese pieris 'Grayswood'Japanese pieris 'Firecrest'Fetterbushes 'White Pearl'Japanese pieris 'Brouwer's Beauty'Japanese pieris 'Prelude'Japanese pieris 'Debutante'Japanese pieris 'Forest Flame'Japanese pieris 'Little Heath'

Toxicity

Japanese pieris is highly toxic to humans, causing symptoms like tingling, nausea, and heart failure upon ingestion. The grayanotoxins in japanese pieris are extremely hazardous to cats, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially death. For dogs, japanese pieris induces severe poisoning symptoms, such as rapid heart rate and lethargy, when consumed. All plant parts are toxic, requiring immediate veterinary care.

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Quickly Identify Japanese pieris

Bell-shaped flowers in white to pink hues, hanging in clusters 6 inches (15 cm) long.

Leathery, dark green leaves in rosette-like clusters, with crenate-serrate margins.

Distinctive dry capsules, 1/4-inch (6 mm), dehiscent with five valves, transitioning from green to brown.

Green to yellow-green stem, slender, with sympodial growth and unornamented texture.

Reddish-brown bark with scaled texture and vertical fissures, matured with splits, tactile and visually distinctive.

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Care Guide for Japanese pieris

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from mountain forest understories, japanese pieris prefers consistent moisture and partial shade. It thrives in evenly moist, acidic soil, with watering every 1-2 weeks. While moderate drought tolerant, it usually grows as an ornamental shrub, showcasing lush evergreen foliage influenced by water availability.

Fertilize: Fertilize japanese pieris from spring to early fall with balanced, slow-release fertilizers every 4-6 weeks, using a high-nitrogen option in early spring. Adjust amounts for growth stages; avoid over-fertilization to prevent root damage and stress. Water thoroughly post-fertilization for better nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Japanese pieris features evergreen foliage and fragrant flowers. Pruning in late spring after flowering encourages growth and maintains shape. Remove dead wood and trim unruly branches to enhance air circulation and sunlight access, improving health and aesthetic appeal while boosting pest and disease resistance.

Propagation: Japanese pieris propagates well via cuttings in spring or summer. While moderately challenging, using rooting hormone can enhance success rates. Watch for new shoot growth as a sign of successful propagation.

Repotting: Repot japanese pieris every 2-3 years before spring, using a pot 2 inches larger in diameter. Utilize well-draining acidic soil and provide dappled sunlight post-repotting. Ensure consistent moisture while avoiding direct sun for optimal foliage health.

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Images of Japanese pieris

Distribution of Japanese pieris

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Japanese pieris

Care Guide for Japanese pieris

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