Rhododendron simsiiIndian Azalea

Almost every florist azalea in the world traces back to Rhododendron simsii, a compact evergreen shrub from the hill forests of southern China that flowers so heavily the foliage disappears behind it. Funnel-shaped blooms in red, pink or white cover the plant in spring.

The conditions it needs are non-negotiable: acidic soil, humus, steady moisture and shelter from hot direct sun. Where those can be provided it is one of the most spectacular flowering shrubs available; where they cannot, it should not be specified.

Specifications

• Height1 to 2 metres, with the species reaching 3 metres
• Width1 to 1.5 metres
• Native toSouthern and eastern China, Taiwan, Myanmar and Thailand
• FoliageSmall elliptic dark green leaves with fine brown hairs; evergreen to semi-evergreen
• Growth rateSlow to moderate

Conditions

• SoilRequires acidic, humus-rich, moist, free-draining soils; will not tolerate alkaline or saline ground
• LightPartial shade, with shelter from hot direct sun
• WaterModerate to high; needs consistent moisture and shallow roots dry out fast
• ClimateThrives in humid warm temperate and subtropical regions

Additional Features

• FlowersFunnel-shaped flowers in red, pink or white, borne so profusely in spring that they hide the foliage
• UsesShaded shrub borders, courtyard and container planting, interior flowering display and formal massing
• SpacingPlant 0.8 to 1.0 metres apart for a continuous mass
• Low MaintenanceRequires acidic conditions, mulch and reliable irrigation; light shaping after flowering
• Pest ResistanceGenerally sound where drainage and airflow are good; lace bug appears in dry heat
• Seasonal AppealA single overwhelming spring display, with neat evergreen structure the rest of the year
• ToxicityAll parts contain grayanotoxins and are toxic if ingested

The Indian Azalea is the spring flowering shrub for acidic, shaded and humid schemes, and only for those.