Rhododendron mollis

Azalea

Location

The Magnolia Garden

Description:

Hardy deciduous or evergreen shrubs come in dozens of varieties and bloom in a wide range of colours that flower earlier and are usually smaller than standard Rododendrons. Leaves are obovate to oblong, medium green, 2 to 4 inches long.Free-blooming and long-lived plants sometimes with fragrant flowers. The flowers are typically funnel shaped, and long lasting. The lighter coloured flowers seem to generally have the best scent. The Mollis hybrids were developed in Belgium and Holland from original azalea seeds from Japan. They are derived from crosses between R. japonicum (Japanese azaleas, formerly A. mollis) and R. molle (Chinese azaleas, formerly A. molle).

Site and Care:

Plant in acid soil in dappled sunlight or light shade, although plants tolerate full sun in cooler areas. Use soil rich in organic matter, which retains water and drains quickly. They benefit from an annual mulch. Prune, if necessary immediately after flowering. Propogate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer.