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Description
Pieris Japonica Blush is a beautiful evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to Japan and Taiwan, where it is commonly known as “Lily of the Valley shrub.” This shrub can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide, and it has gorgeous pink and white flowers that bloom in early spring. The flowers are drooping and bell-shaped, resembling lilies of the valley, and they have a fragrant aroma.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Pieris |
Appearance
Pieris Japonica Blush has a dense, bushy growth habit and glossy, dark green leaves that are 2-4 inches long. The new leaves have a bronze color, which turns to green as they mature. The flowers are usually pink or white, and they bloom in clusters that can be up to 6 inches long. The flowers are followed by small, brown seed capsules that persist through the winter.
Care Guide
Water: Pieris Japonica Blush prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization: Feed Pieris Japonica Blush with a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears. Repeat the application in mid-summer.
Soil: This shrub prefers acidic soil with a pH of 5.0-6.0. If your soil is not acidic, amend it with organic matter such as peat moss or pine needles.
Sunlight: Pieris Japonica Blush prefers partial shade to full shade. Too much sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Pieris Japonica Blush is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pieris Japonica Blush is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to lacebugs, which can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. The shrub may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot, which can cause brown spots on the leaves. To prevent these problems, maintain good cultural practices such as watering at the base of the plant and avoiding overhead irrigation.
Habitat
Pieris Japonica Blush is native to Japan and Taiwan, where it grows in mountainous regions. It prefers cool, humid climates and acidic soils. In its natural habitat, it grows in the understory of forests and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pieris Japonica Blush deer-resistant?
A: Pieris Japonica Blush is generally deer-resistant, although hungry deer may occasionally browse on the leaves.
Q: Can I grow Pieris Japonica Blush in a container?
A: Yes, Pieris Japonica Blush can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I prune Pieris Japonica Blush?
A: Pieris Japonica Blush does not require regular pruning. However, you can prune it after flowering to shape it or remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can I propagate Pieris Japonica Blush from cuttings?
A: Yes, Pieris Japonica Blush can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in early summer.
Related Plants
- Pieris Japonica Mountain Fire
- Pieris Japonica Little Heath
- Pieris Japonica Katsura
- Pieris Forest Flame
References
- “Pieris japonica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c417.
- “Pieris japonica.” Plant Encyclopedia. www.gardenia.net/plant/pieris-japonica.
- “Pieris japonica ‘Blush’.” Plant Finder. www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/207/blush-pieris/.
