Azalea Grandiflora Standard Alba 12 liter

Product Name: Azalea
Botanical Name: Rhododendron spp.
Common Name: Azalea

Product Description

Azaleas are classic, flowering shrubs admired for their abundant, showy blooms produced in shades of pink, red, white, purple and bi-colours. They are ideal for garden beds, borders, woodland gardens, patios and containers, bringing vibrant colour and seasonal interest to shaded or semi-shaded spaces. With proper care, azaleas are long-lived plants that flower reliably year after year and are especially well suited to many regions of South Africa with mild, frost-free winters.

Size When Fully Grown

• Height: Typically 0.8 m – 2 m, depending on variety
• Spread: Approximately 1 m – 2 m
• Compact varieties remain smaller and are well suited to pots, while larger varieties form dense, rounded shrubs in the garden.

Best Growing Conditions

• Light: Partial shade to filtered sunlight. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Avoid harsh midday sun.
• Soil: Acidic, well-drained, organic-rich soil (pH ±4.5–6). Not tolerant of alkaline or lime-rich soils.
• Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during flowering and warm weather. Soil should remain moist but never waterlogged.
• Mulching: Mulch well with pine bark or compost to retain moisture and maintain soil acidity.
• Temperature: Prefers cool to mild climates; protect from heavy frost and extreme heat.
• Feeding: Use an acid-loving fertiliser after flowering and during the growing season.

Common Pests & Problems

Azaleas may occasionally be affected by:

• Aphids – often on new growth
• Thrips – causing flower damage or discoloration
• Scale insects – on stems and leaf undersides
• Spider mites – more common in hot, dry conditions
• Root rot – caused by poor drainage or overwatering
  Good airflow, correct watering and healthy soil greatly reduce pest and disease pressure.

Toxicity (Animals & Humans)

Azaleas are toxic to pets and livestock (dogs, cats, horses and other grazing animals) if ingested. All parts of the plant contain compounds that can cause vomiting, drooling, weakness, heart issues and serious illness. Keep out of reach of animals and young children.

Planting & Seasonal Guidance (South Africa)

• Best Time to Plant: Autumn and early spring are ideal, allowing roots to establish before extreme heat or cold.
• Growing Season: Active vegetative growth occurs from spring through summer.
• Flowering Season: Main flowering typically occurs in late winter to spring, depending on variety and local climate.
• Pruning: Light pruning should be done after flowering, not later than early summer, to avoid removing next season’s buds.