Azeleas belong to the genus Rhododendron, and they can be either evergreen or deciduous. Over 10,000 sorts have been cultivated.
This slow-growing plant is ideal for shady gardens with acid soil (gardens where pines, cypresses, spruces and other conifers grow). It does not like direct sun during the hottest part of the day.
Because of its shallow roots, it is ideal for planting in pots and doesn’t mind growing indoors. It blooms during spring and after the first flowers fall off, it can be pruned slightly to make the subsequent rebloom fuller come summer and autumn.
As with most plants, its biggest enemies are root rot and spider mites.
Azelas are poisonous to cats, dog and humans if eaten, so it is best to keep it away from furry friends and curious children.
I'm not a generally fan of flowers and flowering shrubs but there are a couple of species - including azaleas - that stole my heart
Comments