Pieris japonica 'Cavatine'

Pieris japonica 'Cavatine': Compact Evergreen with Cascading Spring Bells

Pieris japonica 'Cavatine' is a classic, dwarf Japanese andromeda prized for its neat shape and early-season bloom. In spring, tidy chains of white, bell-shaped flowers hang beneath the branches, bringing a soft, elegant look when the garden is just getting started. Glossy evergreen foliage stays deep green and polished through the year, giving this shrub steady structure in shaded and woodland-style plantings. Small in size but full of presence, it’s an easy way to add refined evergreen character to tighter spaces.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 2–3’
• Spread: 3–4’
• Flower Colour: White
• Flowering Period: Early spring
• Foliage: Evergreen, glossy deep green
• Sunlight Requirements: Part Shade to Full Shade (tolerates morning sun)
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, acidic soil enriched with organic matter

Uses and Benefits: A strong choice for foundation plantings, evergreen groupings, and woodland-edge borders where you want year-round structure and a dependable spring bloom moment. Its compact habit makes it ideal for smaller gardens, shaded entry beds, and mixed shrub plantings where space is limited. The evergreen foliage adds winter presence, and the spring flowers bring a gentle lift to darker corners.

Care Instructions: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during establishment and summer dry spells, and mulch to conserve moisture and protect shallow roots. Plant in acidic, organic-rich soil for best vigour, and avoid alkaline conditions. Prune lightly right after flowering if shaping is needed, and remove any winter damage in spring. A sheltered site out of harsh winter wind helps the foliage stay looking its best.

History: Pieris japonica has long been valued for its early spring flower chains and dependable evergreen form. 'Cavatine' became a favourite for its naturally compact habit and refined bloom display, offering classic andromeda beauty in a size that fits today’s smaller landscapes.

Final Thoughts: For a tidy evergreen that brightens spring shade with clean white bells, Cavatine delivers reliable beauty and year-round structure in a perfectly manageable form.