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Pieris japonica 'Bon Fire' (1 Gallon) is an eye-catching evergreen shrub known for its vibrant foliage and striking flower clusters. This variety adds a splash of color and elegance to garden beds, borders, and containers, and is valued for its beautiful, fiery red new growth and abundant white blooms.
Description:
- Dimensions: Grows to a height of 3-4 feet with a spread of 3-4 feet. It forms a dense, rounded shape with rich, glossy green foliage that emerges with a striking red hue in spring.
- Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun to part shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate some shade but will achieve its best growth and foliage color in brighter locations.
- Water Requirements: Prefers well-drained, acidic soil with regular watering. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during dry spells.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in Zones 5-8.
- Bloom Time: Blooms in early spring with clusters of small, white, bell-shaped flowers that provide a lovely contrast against its colorful foliage.
- Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and size. Light pruning can help encourage a denser growth habit and remove any dead or damaged wood. Regular pruning can also help manage the plant's spread and promote more blooms.
How to Plant:
- Location: Ideal for garden beds, borders, and containers. Prefers well-draining, acidic soil and full sun to part shade for optimal growth and foliage color.
- Soil Preparation: Use well-draining, acidic soil enriched with compost. Amend the soil if needed to improve drainage and support healthy growth.
- Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to accommodate their mature spread and ensure good air circulation.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the growing season. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Fun Fact: Pieris japonica 'Bon Fire' is celebrated for its fiery red new growth in spring, which provides a dramatic contrast to its glossy green foliage and delicate white flowers. Its colorful foliage and beautiful blooms make it a standout addition to any garden, offering both visual interest and seasonal appeal.