shrub

Scarlet O'Hara Japanese Andromeda

Pieris japonica 'Scarlet O'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

84 inches

Width

54 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Japan, China

Toxicity

All parts are highly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Pieris japonica is a broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its drooping clusters of bell-shaped flowers in early spring and its often colorful new foliage. It is an acid-loving plant, related to rhododendrons. 'Scarlet O'Hara' is noted for its brilliant scarlet-red new growth that emerges after flowering, creating a second season of color. It has an elegant, upright habit and delicate white flowers.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides multi-season interest with elegant, drooping flower clusters in early spring, followed by a spectacular flush of scarlet new growth. Its evergreen foliage and attractive form offer year-round structure in the shade garden.

Its deer and rabbit resistance makes it a reliable choice for foundation plantings and woodland edges in areas with heavy browsing pressure. It can be used as an informal hedge or screen in shady locations.

The early spring flowers are an important nectar source for emerging pollinators, particularly bees, when few other plants are in bloom.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Ensure the soil is acidic, rich, and well-drained.
Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill with amended soil and water well.
Apply an acidifying mulch like pine straw or bark.

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 acidic soil conditions.
Provide consistent moisture, especially in summer.
Prune lightly immediately after flowering.
Protect from harsh afternoon sun.

Don't

Do not plant in alkaline or heavy clay soil.
Do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Avoid windy, exposed locations.
Do not ingest any part of the plant.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Woodland garden accentFoundation planting for shadeEvergreen screen with spring interest

Companion Plants

Rhododendron Kalmia latifolia Hosta Ferns Helleborus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Scarlet O'Hara Japanese Andromeda questions

What zones can Scarlet O'Hara Japanese Andromeda grow in?

Scarlet O'Hara Japanese 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 Scarlet O'Hara Japanese Andromeda deer resistant?

Yes — Scarlet O'Hara Japanese Andromeda is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Scarlet O'Hara Japanese Andromeda bloom?

Scarlet O'Hara Japanese 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 Scarlet O'Hara Japanese Andromeda need full sun?

Scarlet O'Hara Japanese Andromeda does best in part shade.