RedCrocus Pieris Variegata Live Plant - Variegated Japanese Andromeda Shrub, Evergreen Foliage & White Spring Blooms for Part Shade, Acid-Loving, Woodland Borders & Containers, USDA Zones 5-8 3 Gallon Nursery Pot
RedCrocus Pieris Variegata Live Plant - Variegated Japanese Andromeda Shrub, Evergreen Foliage & White Spring Blooms for Part Shade, Acid-Loving, Woodland Borders & Containers, USDA Zones 5-8 3 Gallon Nursery Pot
Regular price
$200.00 USD
Regular price
$260.00 USD
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$200.00 USD
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SKU:ber1c03-redcrocus
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Pieris Variegata
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Evergreen, variegated Japanese andromeda with graceful spring bloom
Description
Pieris Variegata is a refined, evergreen shrub prized for its glossy leaves edged in creamy white and its cascading clusters of porcelain-white, urn-shaped flowers in late winter to early spring. New growth often flushes bronzy-red to pink, creating a vivid contrast against the mature variegation. Naturally layered and upright in habit, this cultivar lends year-round structure and light to shaded borders and woodland gardens. As an acid-loving member of the heath family, it thrives in cool roots, evenly moist, well-drained soil, and dappled light—rewarding good siting with dependable bloom and clean foliage.
Suggested Uses
- Anchor plant for shaded or dappled woodland borders and foundation beds.
- Brightens part-shade spaces with year-round variegated foliage and spring bloom.
- Mixed with other acid-lovers (Rhododendron, Azalea, Camellia) for layered interest.
- Excellent in large containers on shaded terraces and entryways.
- Understory planting beneath high-canopy trees where soil remains cool and moist.
Quick Facts
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Bloom TimeLate winter to early spring (February–April), pendulous clusters of white, urn-shaped flowers
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Light RequirementsPartial shade; morning sun with afternoon shade. Tolerates more sun in cool-summer climates if soil stays evenly moist
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Hardiness ZonesUSDA Zones 5–8 (provide winter protection in colder Zone 5 sites)
Plant Details
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Botanical NamePieris Variegata Sold Out
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Common NamePieris Variegata (Variegated Japanese Andromeda; Lily-of-the-Valley Shrub)
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Size & GrowthMature size about 5–8 ft tall × 4–6 ft wide; upright, layered form; slow to moderate growth (typically 6–12 in per year)
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Hardiness ZonesUSDA 5–8; shelter from winter wind and morning sun at colder limits
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Foliage TypeEvergreen; leathery leaves with creamy-white margins; new growth emerges bronze to pink before maturing
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Bloom TimeLate winter to early spring; abundant pendant racemes of white blossoms
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Growth RateSlow to moderate; steady with adequate moisture and acidic soil
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Light RequirementsBest in part shade; bright filtered light encourages dense foliage and good flowering
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Attracts PollinatorsVisited by early-season bees for nectar; note: plant tissues are toxic—do not allow browsing animals access
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Indoor FriendlyNot suitable as a long-term houseplant; thrives outdoors with seasonal cues and airflow
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Container FriendlyYes—performs well in large containers using acidic, free-draining media; protect roots from hard freezes
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Deer ResistantGenerally deer-resistant and unpalatable due to natural toxins (grayanotoxins)
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Pet WarningToxic if ingested by pets or livestock; keep out of reach and dispose of prunings responsibly
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FragrantLightly fragrant flower sprays in season
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Cut FlowerYes—racemes and colorful new growth are attractive in arrangements; keep away from pets and children
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Grows Well WithGrows Well With Rhododendron, Azalea, Camellia, Hydrangea macrophylla, Japanese Maple, Heuchera, Hosta, Ferns, Skimmia
Note: Cultural needs may vary slightly by cultivar and site. The guidance above reflects typical care for variegated Pieris japonica in temperate gardens.
Care Tips
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Planting InstructionsPlant in spring or fall. Dig a hole 2–3× wider than the pot, same depth. Set the root flare level or slightly above grade; tease circling roots, backfill with native soil amended with compost, water deeply, and mulch 2–3 in (keep mulch off stems).
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Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist but never waterlogged. Water during dry spells; drip or soaker irrigation is ideal to avoid wetting foliage.
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Soil TypeAcidic, organic, well-drained soil (pH 4.5–6.0). Amend with pine bark, leaf mold, or peat. Avoid alkaline or compacted clay soils.
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HumidityAverage outdoor humidity is adequate. Shelter from drying winds and reflected heat; maintain a cool, mulched root zone.
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Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning needed. After bloom, remove spent racemes and dead or crossing wood; light tip-pruning maintains shape. Avoid heavy cuts into old, bare wood.
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Winter CareMulch before hard freezes; water well in late fall. Site out of winter winds and early morning sun to reduce leaf scorch. Container plants overwinter best in a sheltered, unheated space or against a protected wall.
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Planting DepthPlant at the same depth as in the nursery pot; on heavy soils, set the top of the root ball 0.5–1 in above grade to improve drainage. Do not bury the crown.
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FertilizationFeed lightly in early spring after flowering with a slow-release, acid-loving fertilizer (e.g., holly/azalea formula), or top-dress with compost. Avoid high phosphorus and late-season feeding.
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Special CareMonitor for lacebugs and vine weevils; use horticultural oil or biological controls if needed. Prevent chlorosis by maintaining acidic conditions (apply sulfur or chelated iron if leaves yellow). Water with rainwater where tap water is alkaline; avoid lime. Renew pine bark/needle mulch annually.
