Plants that Work®

Katsura Pieris

Name: Katsura Pieris
Brand: Plants That Work
SKU: 19444
Price: 43.8 USD
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 4.43 (7 reviews)

Pieris japonica 'Katsura'

Katsura Pieris Blazes with Fiery Red New Growth Contrasting Mature Green Foliage Year-Round
Thrives in Zones 5-8
Grows 5-6 ft Tall, 4-6 ft Wide
Showy Purple, Pink Blooms From Early Spring to Late Spring
Perfect for Foundation Planting or Mass Planting

$109³⁹

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Plant Size

#3 Container

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Evergreen, Flowering, Deer-resistant, Attracts pollinators, Hedge/Screen, Container Friendly, Fragrant, Drought resistant
Hardiness Zone	4b to 8b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	5-6 ft
Width	4-6 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Peaty
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Bushy, Spreading, Upright
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	Purple, Pink
Foliage Color	Green, Red, Purple
Fragrant	Yes
Pet Safety	Toxic to pets, Toxic to horses
Suitable Space	Outdoors, Indoors
Botanical Name	Pieris japonica 'Katsura'
Species	japonica
Cultivar	Katsura
Class	Magnoliopsida, Ericales
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Dramatic Flowers and Foliage Katsura Pieris

Elegant Broad-Leaved Evergreen
Features Fiery Red New Growth
New Red and Older Green Foliage Displayed at the Same Time
Lavender Buds Look Decorative in Late Winter
Delightfully Fragrant, Pale Bell-Shaped Flowers in Early Spring
Blooms Held on Long-Lasting, Dangling Racemes
Magnificent Focal Point
Hummingbird and Butterfly Magnet
Performs Beautifully in Sun or Partial Shade
Easy Care
Define Your Landscape with Year-Long Color and Sophisticated Texture
Deer Don't Prefer the Taste

Bring on the drama! If you want to make a huge statement in your yard, include one of the boldest Pieris on the market.

With their extravagant flower display, Pieris already delivers an outstanding ornamental appeal. Katsura Pieris (Pieris japonica 'Katsura' PP #15,452) kicks it up by several notches.

The red new growth is dark Merlot. The flower buds are an electric lavender that simply "pops" against the chic evergreen foliage.

Even the showy flowers are incredible. You won't believe your eyes!

Arched racemes dangle down above the glossy foliage. Each is composed of a long ring of bell-shaped blooms.

The sight and sweet fragrance is a welcome greeting for the new growing season. Plant one as a spectacular specimen, or add several to dazzle your garden guests.

Plant these special shrubs in full sun, or partial shade. Compact enough for small space gardens, Katsura Pieris is also outstanding en masse on an acreage.

Grow them in the ground, or in large outdoor containers. Town home, condo, apartment balcony or suburban paradise...count on Katsura to draw stares and elicit amazement.

It tolerates urban conditions, and is listed on several state Firewise lists. Katsura is an excellent broad-leaved evergreen cultivar. No wonder it is so popular!

Place your order for Katsura Pieris now. This beauty is at a high risk for selling out.

How to Use Katsura Pieris in the Landscape

This rounded shrub could be the perfect candidate for a long-running fence along your property line. You'll stop traffic with this charming flowering selection.

Plant two feet apart on center. You'll measure from the center of one to the center of the next. Mulch between the plants and keep your new hedge weeded as it fills in.

Use them in your landscape design where you want to define a space with year-long color. Repeat them along your mixed shrub borders.

Imagine a fabulous seating area with a Katsura Pieris wall behind you. Everyone will look better with their blooms as a glamorous backdrop!

Hide the neighbors ugly shed with a short row. Plant several in a semi-circle around a fountain.

Sight them where you'll notice their early spring display from inside the house. Why not underplant a Redbud tree with several in a mulched lawn bed?

Like many popular plants, there are plenty of nicknames.Pieris is also known as Fetterbush and Andromeda.

No need to sacrifice style in a small space! Add them to a constellation of containers for an easy-care, hard-working privacy screen on your balcony, porch or deck.

#ProPlantTips for Care

Plant Katsura Pieris in either full sun or partial shade. They need at least four hours of sunlight a day.

They prefer humus-rich, well-drained and slightly acidic soils. Apply a three-inch layer of pine straw mulch over their root systems, and top-dress with compost to boost the nutrients in your soil.

It's important to provide a medium amount of water on a regular basis. Container plants require consistent watering their whole life.

Katsura Pieris blooms on last year's wood, so wait to prune until the flowering is done. You can also enjoy their fragrant blooms indoors in a vase if you trim them in bloom.

Deer don't prefer the taste of Pieris. However, deer repellent spray is recommended by our Horticulture team; apply it on planting day and reapply according to the directions.

Likewise, follow directions when applying slow-release fertilizer. Look for a formula designed for flowering evergreens.

You'll adore Katsura Pieris. Don't miss your chance to order while we have them in stock. Act now!

Other varieties

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Pieris japonica 'Mountain Fire'

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Passion Lily of the Valley Shrub
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This product has no reviews of its own. The merchant grouped it with related products, so the reviews shown are from across that group.

My Favorite Plant Store

Beautiful, healthy, well watered and perfect size to blend in with my Pieris Mountain Fire's I planted last year. Arrived sooner than expected. Will order again.

Dear Kathleen,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that the plants arrived healthy, well cared for, and in just the right size to complement your Pieris Mountain Fire. It’s fantastic that your order arrived sooner than expected, as we know how exciting it is to get new plants ready to thrive in your garden. We look forward to helping you find even more great additions to your landscape in the future. If you ever need tips on plant care or suggestions for companion plants to further enhance your collection, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Unique foliage

The foliage is what I like about this plant. The reds and greens transformation throughout the year is very attractive.

Hi Nettie,

Thank you so much for sharing your appreciation of the Pieris Mountain Fire! We absolutely agree—the vibrant dance of reds and greens that this plant displays truly brings a unique and captivating touch to any garden throughout the seasons. It’s wonderful to hear that you’re enjoying that beautiful foliage change.

If you’d like to keep those colors vibrant year-round, ensuring your Pieris is planted in partial shade and in well-draining, acidic soil can make a big difference. Regular watering during dry spells and a light application of mulch can also help maintain its health and coloration.

Should you ever have questions about care or want suggestions for companion plants that highlight the Pieris Mountain Fire, feel free to reach out. We’re always here to help your garden flourish.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Shade tolerant

I purchased this plant because I have partially shaded area that needed color. I have been very happy with the mountain fire. the flowers and the foliage look nice year around.

Hello Coach,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Pieris Mountain Fire! We’re delighted to hear that this beautiful, shade-tolerant plant has brought such consistent year-round color and charm to your partially shaded area. It’s always a pleasure to know our plants are thriving and adding joy to your landscape.

If you ever need tips on optimal care for your Mountain Fire, a little extra water during dryer spells and acidic soil conditions usually keep these shrubs healthy and colorful. Mulching around the base can also help keep moisture in and roots cool in shaded spots. And of course, if you want to complement your garden with other shade-friendly options, feel free to reach out – we’re here to help you grow your perfect space!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Shade tolerant

I purchased this plant because I have partially shaded area that needed color. I have been very happy with the mountain fire. the flowers and the foliage look nice year around.

Hello Coach,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Pieris Mountain Fire! We’re delighted to hear that its vibrant flowers and year-round foliage have brought wonderful color and life to your partially shaded area. This plant truly is a fantastic choice for spots with less sunlight, and we appreciate you highlighting its performance in your garden.

If you ever want tips on keeping your Pieris thriving—like watering practices during warmer months or protecting it from harsh frost—we’re here to help. Also, pairing it with other shade-loving plants can create a stunning layered garden display! Feel free to reach out anytime for personalized recommendations.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Unique foliage

The foliage is what I like about this plant. The reds and greens transformation throughout the year is very attractive.

Dear Nettie,

Thank you so much for sharing your appreciation of the Pieris Mountain Fire’s unique foliage! We’re delighted to hear how much you enjoy the vibrant reds and greens and their beautiful transition throughout the year. This plant truly is a standout with its seasonal color show, and it’s wonderful to know it brings such charm to your garden.

If you’re interested in enhancing your Pieris Mountain Fire’s display even further, try planting it where it gets morning sun and some afternoon shade—that will encourage the best foliage color intensity. Also, mulching can help maintain soil moisture and protect the roots, especially during colder months.

Should you have any questions as your lovely plant grows, or if you want advice on companion plants that pair beautifully with Pieris, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support your gardening journey!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Spectacular

This is such a beautiful evergreen. Planted it in my Japanese garden - wow! You won't be disappointed.

Dear Raine,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Pieris Mountain Fire! We’re delighted to hear it’s such a striking addition to your Japanese garden—it truly is a spectacular evergreen with its vibrant foliage. Your enthusiasm made our day!

If you ever need tips on caring for your Pieris, such as ensuring it thrives with acidic, well-drained soil and partial shade, we’re here to help. To keep those stunning colors vibrant, avoid harsh afternoon sun and rich the soil annually with slightly acidic mulch or evergreen fertilizer.

Keep enjoying that peaceful garden retreat, and please don’t hesitate to reach out anytime!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Spectacular

This is such a beautiful evergreen. Planted it in my Japanese garden - wow! You won't be disappointed.

Dear Raine,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Pieris Mountain Fire! We’re thrilled to hear that it’s such a stunning addition to your Japanese garden — truly a plant that brings elegance year-round. Your vivid description reminds us all of the charm this evergreen adds to special spaces.

If you're interested, decluttering the base with a light layer of mulch can really help conserve moisture and highlight that vibrant new growth. Plus, periodic pruning after bloom will keep those leaves crisp and colorful. Don’t hesitate to reach out anytime if you have questions or need tips—your garden’s beauty is important to us!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mature size of 'Katsura' Pieris?

Katsura Pieris typically reaches 4-6 feet tall and wide at maturity, forming a naturally rounded shape. This compact size makes it perfect for small gardens, containers, or mass plantings. Allow adequate spacing when planting to accommodate its full mature spread.

Can 'Katsura' Pieris be grown in containers?

Q: Can 'Katsura' Pieris be grown in containers? Yes, Katsura Pieris grows excellently in large outdoor containers and is compact enough for small spaces. Its manageable size makes it perfect for patios, balconies, and urban settings. Use a large container with good drainage and quality potting mix. Shop at Nature Hills for healthy container-ready plants.

Does 'Katsura' Pieris provide year-round interest?

Q: Does 'Katsura' Pieris provide year-round interest? Yes, Katsura Pieris delivers continuous visual appeal through all seasons. The broad-leaved evergreen displays fiery red new growth against mature green foliage, decorative lavender buds in late winter, and fragrant bell-shaped flowers in early spring. Plant in sun to partial shade for best year-round performance.

What are the light requirements for 'Katsura' Pieris?

Katsura Pieris thrives in both full sun and partial shade conditions. This versatile shrub adapts well to varying light levels, making it suitable for different garden locations. For best flowering and foliage color, provide at least morning sun.

Can 'Katsura' Pieris be grown in alkaline soil?

Katsura Pieris prefers acidic soil and struggles in alkaline conditions. Like most Pieris varieties, it thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 4.5-6.0. For alkaline soils, consider container growing or significant soil amendment with peat moss and sulfur.

What watering requirements does 'Katsura' Pieris have?

Katsura Pieris prefers consistently moist, well-draining soil but is relatively drought tolerant once established. Water regularly during the first growing season to develop deep roots. Apply 2-3 inches of mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool.

What is the hardiness of 'Katsura' Pieris?

'Katsura' Pieris is hardy in USDA zones 6-8. This broad-leaved evergreen thrives in both full sun and partial shade conditions. Plant in well-draining, acidic soil for best performance.

What pests affect 'Katsura' Pieris?

Katsura Pieris is generally pest-resistant, though aphids and scale insects may occasionally appear on new growth. Lace bugs can sometimes affect the foliage in hot, dry conditions. Monitor your shrub regularly and treat any infestations early with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.

Can 'Katsura' Pieris be pruned heavily?

Katsura Pieris tolerates moderate pruning but doesn't respond well to heavy cutting. Like most evergreen Pieris, it's best to limit pruning to light shaping and deadheading spent blooms. Prune lightly right after flowering in late spring to maintain its natural rounded form.

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Katsura Pieris

Pieris japonica 'Katsura'

Dramatic Flowers and Foliage Katsura Pieris