Pieris japonica 'Scarlett O'Hara' (Japanese Pieris)

Pieris japonica 'Scarlett O'Hara' (Japanese Pieris), 'Scarlett O', is valued for its evergreen presence and seasonal bloom in PNW gardens.

Pieris (Lily-of-the-Valley Shrub / Andromeda) is a refined evergreen with cascading panicles of urn-shaped white or pink spring flowers, glossy whorled foliage, and brilliant red or bronze new growth that lights up the spring garden.

Part shade to dappled shade suits this species. Plant in moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acidic soil. Hardy USDA Zone 5 to 8. Site sheltered from hot afternoon sun and cold drying winds. Plant high in acidic, well-drained soil; mulch lightly. Watch for lacebug damage in too-sunny exposure (a common PNW issue) and Phytophthora root rot in poorly drained sites.

For a PNW native ericaceous evergreen of similar character, consider Vaccinium ovatum (Evergreen Huckleberry) , glossy evergreen leaves, urn-shaped flowers, and edible berries native to PNW coastal forests.