Pieris japonica 'Forest Flame' – A Stunning Evergreen with Fiery Red Foliage and Delicate White Blooms
Pieris japonica 'Forest Flame,' commonly known as Japanese Andromeda, is an eye-catching evergreen shrub renowned for its vibrant red new growth and delicate clusters of white, bell-shaped flowers in spring. With its compact size and striking foliage, this variety of Pieris is a perfect choice for adding year-round interest to both formal and woodland gardens. The contrast between the fiery red tips of the leaves and the soft white blooms makes it a standout in any landscape. Hardy, low-maintenance, and perfect for providing colour in the early spring, 'Forest Flame' is a must-have for gardeners looking for both seasonal beauty and year-round structure.
Why Grow Pieris japonica 'Forest Flame'?
Vibrant Red Foliage – The young foliage emerges a striking red before maturing into glossy green, offering a dramatic burst of colour that lasts through much of the growing season. This makes it an excellent choice for adding contrast and seasonal interest to the garden.
Compact & Upright Growth – 'Forest Flame' grows in a compact, upright form, typically reaching heights of 4 to 5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters). Its tidy, dense habit makes it ideal for both smaller gardens and larger landscapes where structure and texture are desired.
Spring Blooms – In early spring, 'Forest Flame' produces clusters of small, urn-shaped white flowers that add a touch of elegance to the shrub. These blooms are not only visually appealing but are also fragrant, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Year-Round Interest – With its evergreen nature, 'Forest Flame' provides structure and foliage colour throughout the year, making it a versatile plant for adding consistency and interest in the garden, even during the winter months.
Low-Maintenance & Hardy – Pieris 'Forest Flame' is a hardy shrub that requires minimal care once established. It thrives in a variety of conditions, from coastal gardens to shaded woodlands, making it a low-maintenance addition to any garden.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Prefers partial to full shade, although it can tolerate some morning sun. It thrives in sheltered areas where it is protected from strong winds, making it perfect for woodland or shaded garden settings.
Soil: Grows best in acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It appreciates moist, but not waterlogged, conditions, and benefits from slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5).
Watering: Water regularly after planting to help the plant establish itself. Once established, Pieris 'Forest Flame' is drought-tolerant but still benefits from consistent moisture during dry spells, especially in its first few years.
Maintenance:
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Prune lightly to maintain a compact shape and remove any dead or damaged growth. After flowering, you can prune back to promote new growth and enhance the plant's overall form.
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Mulch around the base to keep the roots cool and retain moisture, especially in the summer months.
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Fertilize with an acid-loving fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Pieris japonica 'Forest Flame' pairs beautifully with other shade-loving plants, such as hostas, ferns, and astilbes, which complement its lush, vibrant foliage and delicate blooms. It also works well in mixed shrub borders with plants like Rhododendrons and Azaleas, where the contrast in flower shape and foliage texture adds richness and depth. For a woodland garden, combine with evergreen conifers or deciduous shrubs like Hydrangeas or Viburnums to create a harmonious, layered effect that changes throughout the seasons.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
