Distinctive, rich color makes Interstella lily of the valley shrub out of this world! Interstella pieris is one of the earliest blooming plants, starting its display of beautiful, bell-like, ruby-colored flowers before the calendar (and the weather!) even say its spring. And there are hundreds of them, dangling delicately from fine stems against a gorgeous evergreen backdrop. The flowers persist for a very long time - two months or more, often - and when they are done, the plant begins a dazzling display of star-like bright red new growth. So, obviously, it's beautiful, but there's more: this is possibly the most shade tolerant flowering shrub, blooming well even in very low light conditions, and it's deer resistant, too. 

• Lantern-like blooms are delicately colored with a deep ruby tone
• Extremely early to bloom, and blooms are very long lasting
• One of the best shrubs for shade
• Winter interest
• Deer resistant

Category: Shrub
Breeder: Proven Winners
Hardiness Zone: 5-8
Height: 3-4 ft
Spread: 3-4 ft
Bloom Color: Red Shades
Foliage Color: Green Shades, Red Shades

Growing & Maintenance Tips for Pieris japonica Interstella®

Pieris is related to rhododendrons and as such, requires similar conditions: acidic soil, moist but well drained soil, and protection from the worst of winter winds, especially in the colder parts of its range. A 2-3"/5-7cm layer of mulch is very beneficial. This plant should not be regularly pruned or cut back, but you may selectively remove branches as needed to develop the shape you wish.