Traits
- Sun
- Shade
- Feature
- Hedge
- Rockery
- Container
- Fragrant
Flowering Season
Spring
Genus
The Rhododendron deciduous azalea hybrids are attractive plants cultivated for their beautiful flowers and lush foliage that can take on fiery hues in autumn. There are a number of hybrid types within this group, including: the Ghent Hybrids, large early blooming bushes first bred in Belgium in the early 1800s; the Ilam and Melford Hybrids, bred in New Zealand, with larger fragrant flowers; the Knap Hill and Exbury Hybrids, large bushy shrubs with large flowers in vibrant colours, first bred in England in the late 1800s; the Mollis Hybrids, large hardy shrubs with single flowers in strong colours; the Occidental Hybrids, broad spreading shrubs that are the most drought-, heat and humidity-tolerant of the deciduous azaleas; and the Rustica Flore Pleno Hybrids, with spectacular double flowers.
Appearance
Prized for their ornamental value and autumn foliage colours, Rhododendron deciduous azalea hybrids are multi-stemmed plants that do not form a central trunk. In winter, the sticky buds appear, containing both the flowers and the new foliage. The leaves often appear with or after the spring flowers. The foliage of deciduous azaleas matures from bright green shoots in spring to bronze in summer, followed by rich reds to yellows in autumn, before falling. The trumpet-shaped flowers are mostly in shades of cream to salmon, yellow, orange, and scarlet, and are followed by many-seeded fruit capsules. These hybrids will flower best in climates with a fairly cold winter.
Cultivation
Like the Rhododendron species, the deciduous azalea hybrids prefer acidic soils, high in organic matter and freely draining in a partly shaded position. While most prefer some protection from wind, sun, and frost, many others tolerate these conditions. Propagate from half-hardened cuttings or layers.
Gardening Australia suggests you check with your local authorities regarding the weed potential of any plants for your particular area.
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