Pieris japonica ‘Temple Bells’

One of the best white flowering Pieris varieties is Pieris japonica ‘Temple Bells’. Grown for the masses of white bell shaped flowers in spring, it also has very attractive foliage.

The flowers in spring are followed by a flush of new red growth, by summer this has turned to mid green. Reaching round 1m in height and up to 2 metres in good conditions this species is from the Ryku islands of Japan and is sometimes sold as Pieris ryukuensis ‘Temple Bells’

How to grow Pieris japonica ‘Temple Bells’ – Basic Care

This is a plant that is best grown in a humus rich well drained soil which retains some moisture.

A slightly acidic soil soil is best and any water logged soil should be avoided as this can cause root rot.

Flowering and general growth is best in a position with good sun to a little light shade in summer months, especially in warmer climate zones.

Choose a position away from hot drying winds, and also avoid cold windy positions.

Renew mulch around the plant each autumn and top up in spring, spring is also a good time to fertilise using a general purpose slow release type fertiliser.

moist but well drained, acid soil; will not tolerate chalk soils or waterlogging. Position in full sun or light shade, with protection from cold, drying winds, and mulch annually in autumn

1. After planting, water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser.
2. Mulch around the plant to maintain a cool root run.
3. Water regularly through the first summer.
4. Fertilise with slow release Camellia fertiliser in early spring. Repeat this at the end of summer, remembering to water well both before and after fertilising.

A little top dressing with well rotted compost, and a re application of mulch each spring will keep the plant in good condition.

Landscaping Uses

We think that Pieris japonica ‘Temple Bells’ is at its best as a stand alone feature plant, this gives it a chance to display its flowers at their best. It can be used in the garden border in a mixed planting, or grown as a low hedge.

Over time Pieris Temple bells can reach 2m (6ft) in height, it will spread to around 1m (3ft). A position that takes into account mature size is important.

Choose a position where the flowers can be shown off in spring, a woodland or cottage garden works well, formal gardens are also suitable.

You could grow Temple Bells in a container in a courtyard or on a patio if desired.

Also suited to growing in containers it does make a good plant for a shady courtyard.

Pruning

This a naturally neat growing plant and as such little to no pruning is required. Dead damaged or errant growth can be cut back at any time.

If your plant simply become to large for its position in the garden, you can hard prune by removing around 1/3 of the old wood. This will help the plant rejuvenate however you will loose flowering for the next season.

Propagation

Easily propagated by taking softwood cuttings in early summer.

Summary Information

• Height – Will reach 1 – 2 metres
• Spread – Upright however will spread to 1.5meters over time.
• Growth rate – Slow
• Position – Protected from very hot sun, dappled shade to morning sun.
• Soil – Humus rich, well drained.
• Flowers – White Bell shaped.
• Foliage – Good mid green
• Pruning – Generally not required.
• Frost tolerant – Yes

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Pieris japonica ‘Temple Bells’ is available from the following local nurseries in season

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