Pieris japonica 'Dorothy Wycoff'

This graceful, evergreen shrub features a compact, upright habit and is prized for its vibrant, seasonal displays. Hardy in USDA Zones 5-8, it thrives in cool to moderate temperatures and prefers partial to full shade. Its soil requirements include well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter for optimal growth. In early spring, it showcases clusters of bell-shaped, rosy-pink flowers that fade to white as they mature, providing a burst of color before many plants emerge from dormancy. The glossy, lance-shaped leaves exhibit maroon tones in their new growth, transitioning to a rich green throughout the year, with no significant fall color changes. Mature specimens generally reach a height of 4-6 feet and a similar spread, with a dense and full form. Deer-resistant and low-maintenance, this shrub makes a wonderful addition to woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as a foundation plant, while also offering seasonal interest and year-round structure.