SCIENTIFIC NAME: Pieris japonica 'Mountain Snow'

COMMON NAME: Mountain Snow Japanese Pieris

GARDEN SIZE: 3-4 ft. tall x 2-3 ft. wide

GROWTH RATE: Slow, increasing to moderate as it matures

USDA ZONE: 4-8

EXPOSURE: Part Shade; Protect from harsh winter winds

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

HABIT (FORM): Dense, rounded shrub

FOLIAGE: Evergreen; Oblong, glossy dark green leaves that emerge bronze

FLOWERS: Drooping clusters of white bead-like flowers in early spring

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