Japanese pieris (Pieris japonica ‘Valley Valentine’)

Japanese pieris

Features and Characteristics

Pieris japonica is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that typically matures to 9-12’ tall with a dense, upright habit. It features drooping clusters (racemes to 6” long) of lily-of-the-valley-like white flowers in early spring. Serrulate, oblanceolate to obovate-oblong leaves (to 5” long) emerge orange-bronze but mature to glossy dark green. Leaves are evergreen. Bead-like flower buds are set in late summer for the following year and provide winter interest and contrast to the evergreen foliage. Many cultivars are available featuring flowers in various shades of white, pink and deep rose.

Synonymous with and sometimes sold as Andromeda japonica.

Genus name is the name of one of the Greek Muses.

Specific epithet means of Japan.

‘Valley Valentine’ typically matures in a spreading mound to 4’ tall over the first 10 years. It features large clusters (racemes) of lily-of-the-valley-like maroon flowers in early spring. Serrulate, oblanceolate to obovate-oblong leaves (to 2” long) emerge orange-bronze but mature to glossy dark green. Leaves are evergreen. Bead-like flower buds are set in late summer for the following year and provide winter interest and contrast to the evergreen foliage.

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in organically rich, slightly acidic, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. In St. Louis, Japanese pieris doesn’t seem to perform well in most locations. Summer foliage decline and reduced vigor results in weakened plants that may succumb to a harsh winter. It grows best in locations sheltered from wind with some afternoon shade. Remove spent flowers immediately after bloom.

Japanese pieris (Pieris japonica ‘Valley Valentine’) Requirements

Hardiness zone	5 - 8
Sun light	Full sun to part shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	High

Common Problems

Dieback (phytophthora) and leaf spot are occasional problems. Lace bug infections can be a serious problem, particularly in the eastern U.S. Watch for mites, nematodes and scale.

Uses

This cultivar is ideal for foundations and foreground placements in the shrub border. Effective when mixed with other broadleaf evergreens. May be massed, grouped or grown as small specimens.

Japanese pieris (Pieris japonica ‘Valley Valentine’) Details

Common name	Japanese pieris
Botanical name	Pieris japonica 'Valley Valentine'
Plant type	Broadleaf evergreen
Family	Ericaceae
Hardiness zone	5 - 8
Water	Medium
Maintenance	High
Flower color	Maroon
Flowering period	April
Height	2 - 4 ft.
Width	3 - 5 ft.