SCIENTIFIC NAME: Pieris japonica 'Passion', PP19,319

COMMON NAME: Passion Party™ Passion Pieris

GARDEN SIZE: 5-6 ft. tall x 5-6 ft. wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 5-7

EXPOSURE: Part Shade; Protect from harsh winter winds

WATER & SOIL: Prefers medium moisture, well-drained slightly acidic soils; drought-tolerant once established

HABIT (FORM): Compact, upright shrub

FOLIAGE: Evergreen; Glossy dark green foliage with deep reddish-purple fall color

FLOWERS: Arching racemes of cherry red, bell-shaped flowers, blooming late spring to early summer

PLANT ORIGIN: Japan, Taiwan, and eastern China

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: May provide some nesting sites and shelter for birds and small mammals, but does not serve as much of a host for local insects and wildlife. May provide food for insects in the spring.

FERTILIZING: Use a fertilizer for acid-loving plants (such as Holly-tone) after blooming in the spring and during the fall.

PRUNING: Prune spent flowers immediately after flowering

TOXICITY FLAGS: Generally considered toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Also toxic to humans.

USES: Foundation Plant, Shade Gardens, Border, Specimen