Japanese Andromeda
A Deer Resistant Evergreen Shrub for Shade
This shade loving evergreen is an ideal companion plant for camellias and rhododendrons.
Japanese andromeda (Pieris japonica) is a slow-growing evergreen shrub native to Japan, Taiwan, and eastern China. It is a member of the heather (Ericaceae) family, which also includes rhododendrons and azaleas.
This deer resistant shrub for shade is also grown for its attractive evergreen foliage and pendulous clusters of bell-shaped, lightly scented spring flowers, which can last up to three weeks in zones 5-8 and are a favorite source of early spring nectar for mason bees.
There are various cultivars of Japanese andromeda available to choose from, differing in size, shape, leaf color, and flower color - read on for a list of the most popular cultivars. This shade loving evergreen has specific cultural requirements, which give it the reputation of being somewhat fussy to grow. Japanese Andromeda requires moist, well-draining, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter, and grows best in full sun to partial shade with protection from hot afternoon sun and drying winds.
Japanese andromeda is perfect to plant along side other shade and acid loving shrubs, such as Japanese camellias, hollies, rhododendrons and azaleas. As with any other shrub, water deeply on a regular basis until the plant becomes established (see “How to Water your Plants” for help coming up with a watering schedule).
Is Japanese Andromeda Deer Resistant?
Japanese andromeda is one of the best deer resistant shrubs for shade. Deer tend to avoid this plant due to its leathery leaves and slightly toxic nature. However, it's important to note that no plant is completely deer-proof. If food is scarce, deer might still nibble on it, especially younger plants or new growth. Rutgers University rates Japanese andromeda as “rarely damaged” on their list of Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance. Japanese Andromeda is a popular choice for deer resistant shade landscaping.
It's worth noting that while Japanese andromeda is a beautiful and popular ornamental plant, parts of it can be toxic if ingested, so it's important to be cautious, especially if you have pets or small children. Japanese andromeda does not behave aggressively in the garden, and is not considered invasive in the United States.
The evergreen leaves of Mountain Fire Japanese Andromeda, an evergreen deer resistant shrub for shade.
How to Plant and Grow Japanese Andromeda
Little Heath Japanese Andromeda
Planting: The best time of year to plant this deer resistant shrub for shade is in the spring or fall, giving the roots time to establish before the onset of extreme hot or cold weather. Nurseries and garden centers typically have a larger, better selection of plants in the springtime. Water deeply after planting to settle the soil.
Location: Choose a site with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. While Japanese andromeda can tolerate full sun, it prefers partial shade and protection from the intense afternoon sun.
Wind Protection: Plant Japanese andromeda in an area where it receives shelter from strong, drying winds.
Soil: Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, shredded leaves, or Leaf-gro® to improve drainage and soil fertility. Ensure that the soil pH is slightly acidic, in the 5.0 to 6.0 range. Consider getting a soil test.
Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during periods of drought. Deep watering is preferable to encourage the development of a strong root system (Are you in a drought? Check the U.S. Drought Monitor).
Fertilization: In spring, after flowering, feed Japanese andromeda with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants (like Holly-tone®). Plants grown in pots or planters will need more frequent fertilization.
Pruning: Prune Japanese andromeda sparingly; they have an attractive shape and are best left alone. Remove dead or damaged branches and prune sparingly to shape, as needed, after the plant has finished flowering.
Pest and Diseases: Japanese andromeda is susceptible to lace bugs, mites, and root rot. Keep an eye out for these pests and diseases. Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can be used for control. Ensure good air circulation to minimize the risk of diseases.
Is Japanese Andromeda Evergreen?
Japanese andromeda (Pieris japonica) is an evergreen shrub. It retains its foliage throughout the year and into the next growing season, providing a constant source of visual interest in the garden. There are numerous cultivars available, each offering distinct leaf colors ranging from deep green to vibrant shades of red, pink, and bronze or variegated cream and green. Japanese andromeda is a great choice for gardeners looking for a shrub with colorful foliage.
This deer resistant shrub for shade can be strategically planted alongside other evergreen species that share similar soil preferences for moisture and acidity. Combine with companion plants like camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas, fothergillas and hydrangeas in moist, well-draining, slightly acidic soil.
Landscape Design Ideas for Japanese Andromeda
Mixed Border: Plant Japanese andromeda in a mixed border, alongside other evergreen and deciduous shrubs. Create visual appeal by using plants with a mix of textures, colors, and flowering times.
Woodland Garden: Japanese andromeda is a deer resistant shrub for shade and thrives in the dappled sunlight of a woodland garden. Combine it with other partial shade, acid loving plants like azaleas, Japanese camellias, rhododendrons, mountain hydrangeas, ferns, and heucheras.
Foundation Planting: The compact and mounded growth habit of Japanese andromeda makes it ideal for planting around the base of your home.
Focal Point, Accent, or Specimen Planting: Use Japanese andromeda as a focal point or accent plant in the garden. Choose a cultivar with showy flowers and foliage, like ‘Mountain Fire’.
Containers: Smaller cultivars of Japanese andromeda, like ‘Cavatine’ or ‘Little Heath’, are well-suited for containers - just be sure to use a container with drainage holes. Planting Japanese andromeda in a container is a great solution for those with alkaline soil.
Japanese Garden: The graceful form and elegant foliage of Japanese andromeda enhances the serene and contemplative nature of a Japanese garden.
Japanese Andromeda Cultivars
Flaming Silver Japanese Andromeda
Cavatine (Pieris japonica ‘Cavatine’): A dwarf variety with white flowers and a compact, round shape, growing just 2 feet tall and wide. Great for containers and small gardens.
Dorothy Wycoff (Pieris japonica ‘Dorothy Wycoff’): Red buds open to reveal fragrant, pastel pink flowers. New foliage is coral, maturing to deep green as the season progresses. Mature size is 5-7 feet tall and wide.
Flaming Silver (Pieris japonica ‘Flaming Silver’): White flowers atop silvery, variegated cream and green foliage; red leaves emerge when flowering has finished. Grows 5-8 feet tall and wide.
Interstella® (Pieris japonica ‘FARROWPJRF’ Interstella®): Ruby red, long-lasting flowers cover the plant in springtime; red leaves emerge after flowering, turning green with age. Grows 3-4 feet tall and wide.
Katsura (Pieris japonica ‘Katsura’): Rosy pink flowers and wine-colored foliage that fades to deep green by summer. Grows slowly to 5 feet tall and wide.
Little Heath (Pieris japonica ‘Little Heath’): A variegated selection with green leaves edged with cream margins; new growth is tinged with red, and flowers are fragrant and white. Grows 3 feet tall and wide, making it a great selection for small yards.
Mountain Fire (Pieris japonica ‘Mountain Fire’): White flowers with new red foliage that turns green by summer, turning back to deep burgundy red in autumn. Slow growing to 4 feet tall and wide. A great shrub for gardeners looking for an unusual plant.
Mountain Snow™ (Pieris japonica ‘Planow’ Mountain Snow™): A more heat-resistant selection with green leaves and ivory flowers. Grows 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide.
Passion Frost™ (Pieris japonica ‘Ralto’ Passion Frost™): Deep red buds open to unveil reddish purple flowers; variegated green and yellow leaves. Grows up to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide.
Passion Party™ (Pieris japonica ‘Passion’ Passion Party™): A heavy blooming cultivar with vibrant, deep pink flowers. Grows 4-5 feet tall with a spread of 2-3 feet.
Purity (Pieris japonica ‘Purity’): Compact, 3-4 foot sized shrub with fragrant white flowers. Leaves emerge bronze, changing to chartreuse and dark green as the season progresses.
Valley Rose (Pieris japonica ‘Valley Rose’): Rose-colored flowers and dark green foliage that emerges burgundy in the spring. Grows up to 4 feet tall and wide.
Is Japanese Andromeda poisonous or toxic to humans or dogs?
Japanese andromeda (Pieris japonica) is toxic to both people and animals. The flowers, leaves, sap and nectar of the plant are poisonous and should not be planted in yards frequented by young children, dogs, and other pets.
If you have children or pets, consider planting one of these non-toxic alternatives to Japanese andromeda:
This mature, decades-old Japanese Andromeda (Pieris japonica) has grown into a small tree.