The Temple Bells plant is an evergreen shrub native to Japan that blooms in late winter to early spring and is celebrated for its graceful form and ornamental charm. (Photo by MSU Extension/Eddie Smith)
by Bronwynne Bailey
It is difficult to find winter flowering plants, but Temple Bells (Pieris ryukyuensis) is a stunning example. This evergreen shrub is native to the Ryukyu Islands of Japan and an elegant, graceful, form. Temple Bells flowers fit beautifully into a shady garden, making a striking statement alongside other acid-loving plants like camellias and azaleas. This plant offers a graceful form, delicate blooms, and year-round appeal.
Growth Habits
It typically grows 3 to 8 feet tall and wide at a moderate pace. The dark green, leathery leaves emerge with a bronze or reddish tint, adding seasonal interest before maturing to their glossy green. In late winter to early spring, Temple Bells become the star of the garden, bursting into bloom with clusters of delicate, bell-shaped flowers.
The blooms resemble lily-of-the-valley and are pure white to soft pink. They dangle in cascading racemes up to 6 inches long, creating an elegant, frothy effect against the rich green foliage. Their light, sweet fragrance draws early pollinators like bees. These plants thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 to 9.
Soil Preferences
They prefer partial to full shade and acidic, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.
Planting Depth & Spacing
The crown of the plant should be placed at the top of the soil level. In areas with harsh winters, extra mulch around the roots and shelter from strong winds can provide added cold-weather protection.
Watering
Keep the soil for Temple Bells consistently moist, especially when the plants are young, but ensure it never becomes waterlogged. To maintain cool, acidic conditions around the roots, add a 2- to 3-inch layer of pine straw mulch. Watering deeply and allowing the topsoil to become slightly dry between waterings will keep the plants happy, even during dry spells.
Fertilizing
Fertilize Temple Bells in early spring and mid-summer with a slow-release formula designed for acid-loving plants like azaleas and rhododendrons. Overfertilizing can be harmful, so stick to the recommended amounts.
Pruning
After the flowering season, prune lightly to shape the shrubs and remove spent blooms. This keeps plants looking neat and encourages healthy new growth. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling as the plant is harmful if ingested (humans, cats, and dogs).
Pests
Keep an eye out for lace bugs or leaf spots, especially in times of plant stress. Ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering will help prevent disease problems.
Propagation
You can propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer. Some bottom heat may be required to stimulate root growth.
Content summarized from a MSU Extension Service Publication by Dr. Eddie Miles Louis Smith
