Pieris, also known as lily-of-the-valley shrub, is a charming and versatile plant for the cooler zones of Australia. One of the most popular varieties is ‘Christmas Cheer’, a shrub which grows 1-2m (3-6′) tall and has delicate, icing pink flowers. In the southern hemisphere it flowers from late winter to early spring, but in the northern hemisphere it flowers around Christmas, hence its name.
Plant details
Common name: Lily-of-the-valley shrub
Botanic name: Pieris japonica
Description: An evergreen Japanese native shrub to 2-3m (6-10′) tall. It has deep green leaves, often with reddish copper new growth. The flowers are small and waxy, and range in colour from ivory white to deep pinky red and almost purple. Some varieties have extremely long, graceful tassels. There are many cultivars available including variegated forms such as ‘Variegata’, and ‘Christmas Cheer’, the variety featured in our segment, which has early pale pink flowers.
Best climate: Cooler regions of Australia, from Sydney to Perth and areas south, but pieris grows best in the mountains, Tasmania and parts of Victoria.
Best look: Massed together or grown in a mixed planting under trees or against a wall. As cut flowers, pieris is popular in wedding bouquets.
Likes:
- Humus-rich soils that don’t dry out too much.
- Good drainage.
- Part shade to sun.
- Position which is sheltered from wind and frost.
Dislikes:
- Frost – young foliage and early flowers are vulnerable to damage.
- Hot conditions – mulch well in spring and summer to keep roots cool and moist.
Care: Water regularly, do not allow to dry out. Use an organic mulch such as leafmould to help the plant retain moisture and to keep roots cool. Remove any frost damaged growth in spring. Deadhead pieris after flowering has finished – these plants should not need any other form of pruning.
Getting started:
Plants are available at most garden centres in southern Australia and mountain districts all year round. Nurseries specialising in rare or cool climate plants should have a comprehensive range of pieris varieties.