Rhododendron simsii

formosaazaleafull
(Photo by Phillip Rustin)

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Taxonomy (1)

Classification: Angiosperm, dicot
Family: Ericaceae
Common name: Formosa Azalea

General Information (1)

Region of Origin: Central China, East Taiwan, Burma, Thailand
USDA Plants Hardiness Zones: 8-9
Growth Habit: Shrub

  • Size: 8 feet
  • Deciduous/Evergreen: Deciduous
  • Flowering: Early spring

Diagnostic Characteristics

Leaves (1)

  • Shape: Elliptic ovate
  • Other: 3 inches long

formosaazalealeaf
(Photo by Phillip Rustin)

Stem/Bark (1)

  • Color: Gray-brown

formosaazaleastem
(Photo by Phillip Rustin)

Flower (1)

  • Perfect/Imperfect: Perfect
  • Color: Pink to yellow
  • Size: 1.5 to 2 inches long

formosaazaleaflower
(Photo by Phillip Rustin)

Horticultural Information (1)

  • Light: Light shade
  • Soil type: Humus
  • pH: 4.5-6
  • Maintenance: Light trimming needed, fertilize in spring
  • Landscape Uses: Near buildings
  • Other: Avoid heavy clay, sandy soils in open areas, and near shallow rooted plants

Interesting Facts (2)

  • Rhododendron species are considered toxic.

References

1) Galle, F. C. (1987). Azaleas (Rev. and enl. ed.). Portland, Or.: Timber Press.
2) Capon, B. (2010). Botany for Gardeners. Timber Press, Inc. p. 118

Prepared by Phillip Rustin as a course requirement for BIOL 3630/5630, Spring 2013
Edited by Jessica Bartek