What: Pieris japonica variegata, which starts blooming in early February, looks and feels like spring, despite discouraging snow and low temperatures.
Its profusely produced, small urn-shaped blooms have been compared to lily-of-the-valley flowers.
Ivory-edged leaves add to its remarkable beauty.
Delicate and elegant, it is different from many other leathery-leafed evergreen plants.
Mason bees, early native pollinators in the Northwest, are attracted to its flowers.
Sun or shade: Deep, dark shade will reduce the quantity of its flowers, so it is best planted in bright shade or morning sun.
Leaf burn can occur if it is planted in hot afternoon sun.
It prefers rich, well-drained soil, so it is a good idea to add some rich compost to the soil before planting.
Size: In 10 years, pieris japonica variegata can reach 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide.
It is considered a slow grower and should put on only about 4 inches of growth per year.
See it: This shrub is in full bloom at the far end of the master gardener demonstration garden at the Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens, 145 Alverson Blvd., Everett, www.evergreenarboretum.com.
Source: Sandra Schumacher / Evergreen Arboretum & Gardens
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