Little Heath Japanese Andromeda
A Dwarf Pieris with Variegated Leaves
This flowering evergreen shrub is great for containers and small yards.
Little Heath andromeda (Pieris japonica ‘Little Heath’) is a cultivar of Japanese andromeda, 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. Japanese andromeda is grown for its attractive foliage and pendulous clusters of bell-shaped, lightly scented spring flowers, which can last up to three weeks in zones 5-8. Little Heath Japanese andromeda was selected for its colorful foliage and small size. Leaves emerge in spring in shades of pink and red, fading to variegated cream and green as the season progresses. Pink buds open to reveal clusters of white flowers, a favorite source of early spring nectar for mason bees. Little Heath Japanese andromeda is a dwarf cultivar, growing slowly to a mature size of 2-3 feet tall and wide, making it suitable for containers and small gardens.
Little Heath Japanese andromeda has specific cultural requirements, which give it the reputation of being somewhat fussy to grow. It 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. Little Heath Japanese andromeda is perfect to plant along side other acid-loving, partial-shade seekers like 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).
Little Heath Japanese andromeda is one of the most deer-resistant shrubs or bushes you can plant. Pieris japonica is given high marks by Rutgers University on their list of Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance. Deer don’t like the taste, and tend to leave it alone. However, no plant is 100% deer resistant, and deer will eat anything when their favorite tasty plants are unavailable. It's worth noting that while Little Heath 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. Little Heath Japanese andromeda does not behave aggressively in the garden, and is not considered invasive in the United States.
How to Plant and Grow Little Heath Japanese Andromeda
Planting: The best time of year to plant Little Heath Japanese andromeda is in the spring or fall, giving the roots time to establish before the onset of extreme hot or cold weather. Little Heath is a popular, widely available cultivar of Japanese andromeda, but keep in mind that nurseries and garden centers typically have the best selection of plants in the springtime. If you wait until fall, the Little Heath cultivar may be sold out.
Location: Choose a site with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. While Little Heath Japanese andromeda can tolerate full sun, it prefers partial shade and protection from the intense afternoon sun.
Wind Protection: Plant Little Heath 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 Little Heath Japanese andromeda with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants (like Holly-tone®).
Pruning: Prune Little Heath Japanese andromeda sparingly; this plant has an attractive shape and is best left alone. Remove dead or damaged branches and prune lightly to shape, as needed, after the plant has finished flowering.
Pest and Diseases: Little Heath 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 Little Heath Japanese Andromeda Evergreen?
Little Heath Japanese andromeda (Pieris japonica ‘Little Heath’) 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. New growth emerges pink and red in springtime, gradually changing to a variegated cream and green as the growing season progresses. Little Heath Japanese andromeda is a great choice for gardeners looking for a small, unique shrub with colorful foliage.
Little Heath Japanese andromeda 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 Little Heath Japanese Andromeda
Container Planting: The small size and slow growth of the Little Heath Japanese andromeda shrub make it a great plant for growing in a container. Make sure to use a container with a drainage hole, and choose a potting soil that drains freely and is rich in organic matter.
Mixed Border: Plant Little Heath 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: Little Heath Japanese andromeda thrives in the dappled sunlight of a woodland garden. Combine it with other part-shade, acid loving plants like azaleas, rhododendrons, mountain hydrangeas, ferns, and heucheras.
Foundation Planting: The compact and mounded growth habit of Little Heath Japanese andromeda makes it ideal for planting along the foundation of your home.
Focal Point, Accent, or Specimen Planting: Use Little Heath Japanese andromeda as a focal point or accent plant, letting the showy flowers and foliage be the star of your garden.
Japanese Garden: The graceful, elegant form and shape of Little Heath Japanese andromeda enhances the serene and contemplative nature of a Japanese garden.
Is Little Heath Japanese Andromeda Poisonous or Toxic to Humans or Dogs?
Little Heath Japanese andromeda (Pieris japonica ‘Little Heath’) 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 Little Heath Japanese andromeda: