Mountain Fire Pieris

Size

The Mountain Fire Pieris, Mountain Fire Andromeda, or Pieris Japonica Mountain Fire, is a popular evergreen shrub with a showy, upright style. Reaching between 6 and 8 feet tall, with a spread of 5 to six feet, this ornamental stunner has fragrant droop clusters of white flowers that appear in spring, with stunning cherry-red growth that appears above broad, glossy, evergreen foliage. It is very fragrant and creates an incredible spring display. Native to the southeastern United States, The Mountain Fire Pieris is very hardy and critter resistant. The early spring nectar of the flowers is a great source for beneficial pollinators. Fresh growth on the Mountain Fire Pieris is bright red, and mature leaves are a saturated vivid green. Mountain Fire makes excellent cut branches that provide color and structure to arrangements and bouquets. Mountain Fire Pieris Care The Mountain Fire Pieris should be planted in well-drained, moist soil. Mulch is a great option to protect and shelter this impressive shrub. It tolerates acidic soil and grows well in areas with low humidity. It is partial to sun and dappled shade, and needs weekly watering that increases in frequency during times of extreme heat. You can use Azalea and Camellia food to fertilize your Mountain Fire Pieris. This shrub should be pruned in the late spring, just after flowering. Start by cutting branches just above a set of leaves. The Mountain Fire flowers on last years branches. If possible, this plant should be protected from harsh winter winds, and many growers opt to place them under mature trees. Mountain Fire Pieris Spacing These gorgeous shrubs should be planted 4-5 feet apart from center to center to create a tightly spaced hedge. They are also ideal for foundation plantings, patios, and accents. If you prefer a more casual look, they can also be planted further apart or as an individual specimen. They grow well in large outdoor containers and, when they reach maturity, can provide a privacy screen.