root kill is a hazard for plants in pots. I would plant it, not heel it in, in a protected spot and move it to its permanent home in the spring. I love my Enkianthus from the bell-like flowers to its gray bark and its foliage which glows in the fall.

I agree with the above. Plant now and move to permanent spot when ready. Keep well watered until ground is frozen.

Thank you both for your input. I think this is a great plant. Foliage even without the incredible fall color it nice, it's upright growth habit lends itself to many design situations, the way the snow lays on the branches it quite nice, and of course those dainty little flowers make it a plant that should be used more often.

I will plant it now and move after I transplant the crape myrtle.
Ally

Same tight fibrous roots as rhododendrons and azaleas, transplanting later (when dormant) should be easy.