This dense flowering deciduous shrub is native to Korea, Manchuria, Japan and far east Russia where it grows in the understory of mountain forests. It is a member of the heath family, Ericaceae, that also includes heather, blueberry and andromeda. Plants grows 4-6′ tall and have 2-6″ long, obovate leaves that appear in terminal whorls and provide yellow, orange, and red coloration in the fall. Clusters of 3-6 funnel-shaped flowers emerge as the leaves appear and are white tinged with pink, fragrant, and up to 3.5″ across. The flowers are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. Royal azalea is a good choice for borders, hedges, screens, and woodland, butterfly, and wildlife gardens. The genus name, Rhododendron, comes from the Greek word rhodo meaning rose and dendron meaning tree, and was the name for Nerium oleander in ancient times. The specific epithet, schlippenbachii, honors Baron von Schlippenbach, a Russian officer who collected the species in 1854. All parts of the plant are poisonous to humans.
Type:Flowering deciduous shrub
Outstanding Feature: Flowers, autumn coloration
Form: Rounded
Growth Rate: Slow
Bloom: Clusters of white tinged with pink funnel-shaped flowers as the leaves emerge in spring
Size: 4-6′ H x 3-5′ W
Light: Part shade (dappled and high shade best)
Soil: Average, moderately moist, well-drained, acidic (but less so than most azaleas)
Hardiness: Zones 4-8
Care: Locate in a site that protect flowers and flower buds from damage by wind and frost ; mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
Pests and Diseases: Aphids, borers, galls, lacebugs, scale, leafhoppers, mealy bugs, thrips, whiteflies and mites; an blights, leaf spots, powdery mildew, and root rots.
Propagation: Layering, cuttings, seed
Outstanding Selection: ‘Sid’s Royal Pink’ (deeper pink flowers)
Photo Credit: Wikipedia