Rhododendron indicum

indicaazaleafull
(Photo by Phillip Rustin)

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Taxonomy (2)

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

General Information (2)

Region of Origin: Japan
USDA Plants Hardiness Zones: 6-9
Growth Habit: Shrub

  • Size: Low to medium
  • Deciduous/Evergreen: Deciduous
  • Flowering: May to June

Diagnostic Characteristics

Leaves (2)

  • Shape: Lanceolate
  • Other: 3/4 to 1.5 inches long

indicaazalealeaf
(Photo by Phillip Rustin)

Stem/Bark (2)

  • Color: Medium brown

indicaazaleastem
(Photo by Phillip Rustin)

Flower (2)

  • Perfect/Imperfect: Perfect
  • Color: White to red
  • Size: 1.5 to 2.5 inches

indicaazaleaflower
(Photo by Phillip Rustin)

Horticultural Information (2)

  • 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 (1)

  • Rhododendron species are considered toxic

References

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

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