Mountain Fire Andromeda
Pieris japonica 'Mountain Fire'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
60 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Medium
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Japan, Taiwan, eastern China
Toxicity
All parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Pieris japonica is a broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its clusters of urn-shaped flowers and often colorful new foliage. It requires acidic soil and provides excellent four-season interest. 'Mountain Fire' is celebrated for its fiery, brilliant red new growth in spring, which creates a stunning contrast with the mature, glossy dark green leaves. It also produces drooping clusters of white, bell-shaped flowers.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site with acidic, moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
- Incorporate organic matter like compost or peat moss into the soil.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
- Set the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above soil level.
- Backfill with the amended soil and water thoroughly.
- Mulch with pine straw or shredded bark to conserve moisture.
Pro Tip
Site in a location protected from harsh winter winds and hot afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Maintain a consistent layer of acidic mulch.
- Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilize annually with a product for rhododendrons or azaleas.
- Deadhead spent flowers to direct energy into vegetative growth.
Don't
- Do not plant in alkaline (high pH) soil; it will cause yellowing leaves.
- Avoid locations with hot, drying afternoon sun or harsh winter winds.
- Don't allow the soil to dry out completely.
- Avoid deep cultivation around the shallow roots.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mountain Fire Andromeda questions
What zones can Mountain Fire Andromeda grow in?
Mountain Fire Andromeda is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Mountain Fire Andromeda deer resistant?
Yes — Mountain Fire Andromeda is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Mountain Fire Andromeda bloom?
Mountain Fire Andromeda typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Mountain Fire Andromeda need full sun?
Mountain Fire Andromeda does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Pieris to compare
Flaming Silver Pieris Japanese Pieris
Pieris japonica 'Flaming Silver'
Little Heath Pieris Japanese Pieris
Pieris japonica 'Little Heath'
Mountain Snow Pieris
Pieris japonica 'Mountain Snow'
Scarlet O'Hara Japanese Andromeda
Pieris japonica 'Scarlet O'
Japanese Andromeda
Pieris japonica 'Purity'
Cavatine Lily-of-the-Valley Bush
Pieris japonica 'Cavatine'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Mountain Fire Andromeda with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
