Katsura Japanese Pieris
Pieris japonica 'Katsura'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
60 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Japan, Taiwan, Eastern China
Toxicity
All parts are highly toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
A compact, rounded, broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its four-season interest. It features glossy green mature foliage and produces drooping clusters of bell-shaped flowers. 'Katsura' is distinguished by its spectacular new growth, which emerges a deep wine-red or burgundy color, creating a striking contrast with the mature green leaves. Its flowers are a lovely rose-pink, and the reddish flower buds are attractive throughout winter.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site protected from harsh sun and winter winds.
- Ensure the soil is acidic, organic, and well-drained.
- Dig a shallow, wide hole.
- Plant with the root ball's top slightly above soil level.
- Backfill with amended soil and water well.
- Apply a layer of acidic mulch like pine needles.
Pro Tip
Deadhead spent flower trusses immediately after blooming to promote vegetative growth and more flowers for the next year.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Maintain acidic soil (pH 5.0-6.0).
- Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep roots moist.
- Protect from harsh winter winds which can desiccate the foliage.
- Mulch to keep roots cool and conserve moisture.
Don't
- Do not plant in alkaline soil or heavy clay.
- Do not expose to hot, direct afternoon sun, which scorches leaves.
- Do not let the soil dry out completely.
- Do not plant near areas where children or pets play due to toxicity.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch |
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
Katsura Japanese Pieris questions
What zones can Katsura Japanese Pieris grow in?
Katsura Japanese Pieris 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 Katsura Japanese Pieris deer resistant?
Yes — Katsura Japanese Pieris is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Katsura Japanese Pieris bloom?
Katsura Japanese Pieris 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 Katsura Japanese Pieris need full sun?
Katsura Japanese Pieris does best in part shade.
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 Katsura Japanese Pieris 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.
