Sweet azalea (Rhododendron arborescens)

Sweet azalea

Sweet azalea (Rhododendron arborescens) is a perennial shrub that will grow from 1.5 to 1.8 m tall. It blooms in summer with fragrant white lily-like flowers. A profuse bloomer, the funnel-shaped blossoms attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Leaves change from green to reddish-purple in fall. Thrives in full sun to partial shade and grows well in moist, humus-rich soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Sweet azalea (Rhododendron arborescens)

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

2.5 m to 6 m

Spread

Green, Red, Orange, Purple

Leaf Color

White, Pink, Red

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

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Attributes of Sweet azalea

Growth Rate

During Spring and Summer, sweet azalea exhibits a moderate growth rate, meticulously building up its height, canopy, and vibrant, fragrant flower clusters. This steady development rate allows the plant to sustain an abundance of leaf production and bloom effusively, attracting pollinators throughout the active season. The balance of growth velocity also helps resist weather-related stress, maintaining sweet azalea's overall robustness.

Culture

Garden Use

The sweet azalea's most prominent feature is its abundance of showy flowers that grow in the summer, although its fall foliage is also stunning. This bushy plant makes a great ornamental hedge or screen in coastal and cottage gardens, and the blooms also draw in butterflies. It is resistant to rabbits but susceptible to deer.

Symbolism

Temptation, caution and danger

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Toxicity

Sweet azalea is a highly toxic plant with andromedotoxin in all parts. Ingestion, particularly by children, can cause severe symptoms like watery eyes, salivation, vomiting, and even coma. Honey made from sweet azalea flowers may also be toxic, posing additional risks of accidental poisoning.

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Quickly Identify Sweet azalea

Fragrant white flowers with prominent stamens, occasionally tinged with pink.

Egg-shaped woody capsules, around 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) long, releasing tiny seeds.

Dark green, lustrous leaves, 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) long, turning vibrant shades in autumn.

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Care Guide for Sweet azalea

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from moist environments, sweet azalea thrives in high humidity with consistent moisture, ideally watered every 1-2 weeks. It shows moderate drought tolerance but prefers evenly moist soil. Grown outdoors, it benefits from mulching to retain moisture and protect its shallow roots during dry periods.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, sweet azalea needs balanced fertilizers during the growing season to enhance foliage and blooms. Apply in spring and again post-bloom, avoiding over-fertilization. Incorporate organic matter to enrich soil, and refrain from fertilizing during dormancy. Always follow label instructions and monitor for nutrient imbalances.

Pruning: Sweet azalea thrives with careful pruning after blooming in late spring. Remove dead branches and thin crowded areas for better air circulation. Avoid heavy pruning to prevent reduced flowering next season. Regular maintenance promotes health, robust growth, and ornamental appeal.

Propagation: Sweet azalea is a perennial shrub from the Ericaceae family, requiring well-drained, acidic soil. For propagation, use semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy stems, apply rooting hormone, and plant in moist substrate under controlled humidity to encourage root establishment before transplanting.

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Images of Sweet azalea

Attributes of Sweet azalea

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Sweet azalea

Care Guide for Sweet azalea

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