Glossy, brilliant red young leaves gradually turn pink, creamy white, then dark green. In late spring, clusters of pretty, ivory, nodding bell-like flowers appear, resembling lily-of-the-valley. The fiery red young foliage of this upright evergreen shrub will add a splash of vivid colour to a shady shrub border or woodland edge. One of the best varieties, this pieris needs a moist, well-drained acid soil and shade from morning sun.
How to care for Pieris Forest Flame:
Add composted pine needles or ericaceous compost when planting and apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch each year around the base of the plant in early spring. Remove the faded flower-heads in late spring along with any frost-damaged foliage.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
4m
Eventual spread:
2m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Soil:
Humus-rich, moist, well-drained acid soil or ericaceous compost
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
-
Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten