Pieris, Genus, japonica, Species, 'Nocturne', Cultivar,
- Genus & species
- Cultivar
nocturne Japanese pieris
Japan, E China, Taiwan parentage (cultivar selected for darkest foliage)
Overview
Pieris japonica 'Nocturne' is an evergreen shrub reaching 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 m) tall with a spread of 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 m) and an upright, rounded habit. This cultivar is distinguished by its dark foliage—the alternate, narrowly elliptic, leathery leaves are 2-3.5 inches (5-9 cm) long, emerging deep maroon-red to burgundy-purple, maturing to very dark glossy green, noticeably darker than other Pieris japonica cultivars. Pendant chains of white urn-shaped flowers 3-5 inches (8-13 cm) appear in March-April, contrasting against the dark foliage. Growth rate is slow to moderate. Hardy to zone 6. The darkest foliage of any Pieris in the collection—the new growth is particularly deep-colored.
Native Range
Pieris japonica is native to Japan, eastern China, and Taiwan. 'Nocturne' is a cultivar selected for dark foliage.Suggested Uses
Planted in woodland gardens or borders at 3-4 foot (0.9-1.2 m) spacing. The darkest-foliaged Pieris—dark new growth and very dark mature leaves. White flowers contrast against dark foliage. Acidic soil essential. All parts toxic. Not suitable for alkaline soils or full sun in hot climates.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4' - 6'
Width/Spread3' - 5'
Bloom Information
Pendant chains of white urn-shaped flowers 3-5 inches (8-13 cm), March-April. Bloom duration 3-4 weeks. White flowers contrast against the dark foliage.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White; pendant urn-shaped chains 3-5 inches; Mar-Apr; contrasts dark foliageFoliage Description
Very dark glossy green mature (darkest Pieris); new growth deep maroon-red to burgundy-purple; narrowly elliptic leathery 2-3.5 inchesGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in partial shade in moist, well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5-6.0). Hardy to zone 6. Acidic soil essential. The dark foliage develops deepest color in light shade. All parts toxic.Pruning
Remove spent flower chains after bloom. Minimal pruning needed.Pruning Schedule
Prune: April–May
late spring
Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 7 gallons
