shrub RHS Award

Japanese Andromeda

Pieris japonica 'Purity'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

42 inches

Width

42 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

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 drooping clusters of bell-shaped flowers in early spring. It offers four-season interest with its flowers, colorful new growth, and evergreen leaves. 'Purity' is a compact cultivar renowned for its profuse, large, pure white flowers. It also features attractive light green new foliage growth, adding to its seasonal display.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides exceptional four-season interest. In winter, the bead-like flower buds are attractive. In early spring, it erupts in a cascade of elegant, bell-shaped flowers, followed by colorful new leaf growth. The glossy evergreen foliage is handsome year-round.

Its preference for shade and deer resistance makes it a valuable plant for foundation plantings and woodland gardens where other shrubs might struggle.

The early spring flowers are an important nectar source for emerging queen bumblebees and other early pollinators.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with partial shade and protection from wind
Ensure soil is acidic, rich in organic matter, and well-drained
Dig a hole twice the width of the container
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the ground
Backfill with amended soil and water well
Apply a 2-inch layer of acidic mulch like pine needles

Pro Tip

Site in a location protected from harsh winter winds and hot afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch and bud damage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in acidic soil (pH 5.0-6.0).
Mulch annually to keep roots cool and moist.
Water deeply during dry periods.
Deadhead spent flowers to promote vegetative growth.

Don't

Do not plant in alkaline soil.
Avoid locations with hot afternoon sun or harsh winter winds.
Do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Avoid disturbing the shallow root system.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant specimen for woodland gardensClassic foundation planting on north or east-facing wallsGraceful addition to mixed shrub borders

Companion Plants

Rhododendron Azalea Kalmia latifolia (Mountain Laurel) Helleborus Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Andromeda questions

What zones can Japanese Andromeda grow in?

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 Japanese Andromeda deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Andromeda bloom?

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 Japanese Andromeda need full sun?

Japanese Andromeda does best in part shade.