Pieris japonica - Zebris variety

Abstract

The invention relates to a new and distinct variety of Pieris japonica of the evergreen shrub type wherein the new shoots exhibit a bright and distinctive reddish-purple color on the new leaves and stems in combination with a vigorous decorative upright growth habit, abundant mature leaves of larger size having a darker green color which is maintained over the winter, flowers which open and mature seven to ten days later, and young stems and branches which exhibit a more even reddish winter color.

Having thus described and illustrated my new variety of Pieris japonica what is claimed as new and desired to be secured by Letters Patent is: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of Pieris japonica of the evergreen shrub type substantially as shown and described, characterized particularly as to novelty by the unique combination of the new shoots having brilliant reddish-purple color on the new leaves and stems; the highly decorative growth of even, compact, upright habit, vigorous and freely branched; greater winter hardiness and disease resistance; with more abundant leaves of larger size with darker green color and which hold this color over the winter; with flowers which open and mature 7 to 10 days later, and young stems and branches having a more even reddish winter color.