Pieris formosa (Himalayan andromeda)

A hardy evergreen shrub for the woodland edge, could reach 4m in height over many years if very happy. The new foliage emerges brilliant red at the same time as the sprays of white bell-shaped flowers.

Best in light shade, in moist but well drained, neutral to acid soil. Would enjoy a mulch of well rotted compost. Pruning rarely necessary expect for damaged and crossing branches. 'By cuttings'

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.