Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Pieris japonica ‘Katsura’
Katsura Japanese Pieris
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Height
- 4 to 6 feet
- Width
- 4 to 6 feet
- Flower color
- Bright pink
- Foliage color
- Dark green, with new growth in bronze and red shades
- Bloom time
- Late winter to early spring
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun
- Water
- Regular
- Maintenance
- Regular pruning after flowering to maintain shape
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 5 to 8
- Wildlife
- The fragrant flowers attract bees and other pollinators to the garden
About this plant
Pieris japonica 'Katsura' is a stunning evergreen shrub with a compact, mounded growth habit. Its glossy, lance-shaped leaves emerge in shades of bronze and red, maturing to a dark green that provides year-round interest. In late winter to early spring, 'Katsura' produces clusters of small, bell-shaped pink flowers, adding a delightful fragrance to the garden and attracting pollinators.
This shrub thrives in acidic, well-draining soil and prefers partial shade to full sun. While relatively low-maintenance, 'Katsura' benefits from regular pruning after flowering to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. With its ornamental foliage, fragrant flowers, and versatility in various landscape settings, Pieris japonica 'Katsura' is a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Containers · Deer Prone Areas
Companion plants
Yew · Oregon grape · Corydalis · Hosta · Anemone · Foamflower
Design tip
Create a strong late-winter color moment with ‘Katsura,’ when bright pink flowers stand out against glossy dark green foliage. Bronze and red new growth then continues the warm color palette after flowering, giving the shrub a natural visual transition into the growing season.
