Contents
Description
Pieris Japonica Red Head is a stunning evergreen shrub that is native to Japan. It is a member of the Ericaceae family and is highly prized for its striking red foliage, which emerges in the spring. The plant produces long, slender leaves that are glossy and dark green, with a serrated edge. As the foliage matures, it turns a deep red color, which provides a beautiful contrast to the plant’s delicate white flowers. The flowers appear in the spring and are bell-shaped, hanging in clusters from the tips of the branches. Pieris Japonica Red Head is a slow-growing shrub that can reach a height of up to 8 feet and a width of 6 feet.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
---|---|
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Ericales |
Family | Ericaceae |
Genus | Pieris |
Species | Pieris Japonica |
Appearance
Pieris Japonica Red Head is a slow-growing shrub that can reach a height of up to 8 feet and a width of 6 feet. The plant produces long, slender leaves that are glossy and dark green with a serrated edge. As the foliage matures, it turns a deep red color, which provides a beautiful contrast to the plant’s delicate white flowers. The flowers appear in the spring and are bell-shaped, hanging in clusters from the tips of the branches. Pieris Japonica Red Head is an evergreen shrub, which means it retains its foliage year-round.
Care Guide
Pieris Japonica Red Head is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Pieris Japonica Red Head prefers moist soil and can be damaged by drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can damage the plant.
- Soil: Pieris Japonica Red Head prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight, which can scorch the foliage.
- Hardiness Zones: Pieris Japonica Red Head is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pieris Japonica Red Head is relatively disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common problems to watch out for:
- Lacebugs: These insects can cause yellowing and browning of the foliage. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and browning of the foliage. It can be controlled with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This disease can be caused by over-watering or poor drainage. It can be controlled by improving drainage and reducing watering.
Habitat
Pieris Japonica Red Head is native to Japan and is commonly found in woodland areas. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full shade. It is a slow-growing shrub that can take several years to reach its full height and width.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Pieris Japonica Red Head?
A: Water your plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Pieris Japonica Red Head prefers moist soil and can be damaged by drought.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pieris Japonica Red Head?
A: Pieris Japonica Red Head is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Q: What is the best soil pH for Pieris Japonica Red Head?
A: Pieris Japonica Red Head prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0.
Q: What pests and diseases affect Pieris Japonica Red Head?
A: Pieris Japonica Red Head is relatively disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to lacebugs, leaf spot, and root rot.
Related Plants
- Pieris Japonica
- Pieris Flaming Silver
- Pieris Forest Flame
- Pieris Mountain Fire
References
- “Pieris japonica Red Head.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c780.
- “Pieris japonica ‘Red Head’.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/191212/Pieris-japonica-Red-Head/Details.
- “Pieris japonica ‘Red Head’.” Plant Lust, plantlust.com/plants/11938/pieris-japonica-red-head.