top of page

Andromeda

Pieris japonica

The Elegant Evergreen: Pieris japonica (Japanese Andromeda)


The Snapshot

  • Common Name: Japanese Andromeda, Lily-of-the-Valley Shrub

  • Scientific Name: Pieris japonica

  • Hardiness: Zones 5 – 8 (Thrives in the NJ freeze-thaw cycle).

  • The "Vibe": Refined, drooping, and multi-colored; the "Sophisticated Anchor" of the shade garden.

Why It’s a North Jersey & Suburban Classic

  • The "Three-Season" Leaves: This is the plant's greatest trick. In early spring, the new leaves emerge a bright, fiery bronze or cherry red. As they age, they turn a deep, glossy green, and they stay that way all winter long.

  • The Winter Buds: Long before it blooms, Pieris produces clusters of "beaded" buds that hang from the branches all winter. They look like tiny strings of pearls against the snow.

  • Early Spring "Bells": In March and April, the beads open into drooping clusters of bell-shaped flowers. They look exactly like Lily-of-the-Valley but on a sturdy, evergreen shrub.

  • Deer Resistance: High. Pieris contains compounds that are toxic to livestock and unpalatable to deer. In New Jersey's "Deer Corridors," this is often the only evergreen left standing.

Stories from the Garden

"I have a shaded foundation bed in Summit that was always a problem. I planted a 'Katsura' Pieris, and it’s now the star of my spring garden. I love the way the wine-red new leaves look right next to the white flowers in April. It’s been through some brutal NJ winters and never lost its leaves. It’s slow-growing but looks better every single year."

— Diane S., Zone 6 Gardener (Summit, NJ)


Designer Tips: Where to Plant

  • The Shady Foundation: Use them to frame a front door on the north or east side of the house. Their "tiered" branching habit is very architectural.

  • The Azalea Companion: Plant them behind Azaleas. The Pieris will provide the dark green backdrop in May when the Azaleas are blooming, and the Pieris will take the spotlight in March.

  • The "Moon" Garden: The white-flowered varieties like 'Cavatine' or 'Mountain Fire' reflect moonlight beautifully, making them great for patios used at night.

Designer Pro-Tip: The "Lace Bug" Watch. If your Pieris is in too much sun, it might get "Lace Bug," which makes the leaves look yellow and stippled. In New Jersey, the best spot is morning sun and afternoon shade. This keeps the leaves dark green and the bugs away.

bottom of page