Item Tag: Azalea

Royal Azalea, Rhododendron schlippenbachii, Seeds Fragrant Flowers, Fall Color, Cold Tolerant, Bonsai Royal Azalea is an upright, densely branched, deciduous shrub that is native to Korea, Manchuria and Japan. It typically grows to 4 to 6 feet tall (sometimes to as much as 15 feet tall). There are 3 to 6 large, funnel shaped flowers per inflorescence. Flower color ranges from pale pink to rose-pink or white, spotted red-brown on the 3 upper lobes. Flowers can be almost 3 1/2 inches across. The fragrant flowers bloom in clusters at the branch ends in April to May as the leaves emerge. The leaves are arranged in distinctive whorls of 5 at the end of the branchlets. Autumn foliage turns attractive shades of yellow, orange or crimson. The plant is hardy to -25°F (-32°C), slow growing to 4 feet in 10 years. It prefers a less acid soil than most rhododendrons. This species was introduced to the west when it was discovered in Korea in 1854 by a Russian naval officer, Baron von Schlippenbach, for whom it is named. Its natural range extends from Korea into bordering parts of Manchuria and Russia. It is one of the commonest shrubs in Korea, being the dominant undergrowth plant in some forests. During June, these areas are transformed into vast drifts of pink. According to Cox, “Rhododendron schlippenbachii is one of the finest azalea species, with attractive foliage, good autumn color and large handsome flowers.” Other Names: Royal Azalea Zone: 4 to 6 Growth Rate: Slow Plant Type: Deciduous Flowering Shrub Family: Ericaceae Native Range: China, Japan, and Korea Height: 6 to 8 feet Spread: 6 to 8 feet Shape: Upright rounded shrub Bloom Time: April – May Bloom Color: White tinged with pink Flower/Fruit: Fragrant 3 1/2 inch pale pink flowers Sun: Part Shade Fall Color: Shade of yellow, orange or crimson. Drought Tolerance: Low Water: Medium Maintenance: Medium Site Requirements/ Soil Tolerances: Best grown in acidic, humusy, organically rich, medium moisture, moisture retentive but well drained soils in part shade. Prefers a sun dappled or high open shade. Tolerates a fair amount of sun in cool northern summers, but leaves may scorch in hot afternoon sun. Plant in a location protected from strong winter winds. Good soil drainage is essential (doesn’t like “wet feet”). Poor drainage inevitably leads to root rot, therefore raised beds/plantings should be considered in heavy clay soils. Shallow, fibrous root systems (do not cultivate around plants) will benefit greatly from a mulch (e.g., wood chips, bark or pine needles) to help retain moisture and stabilize soil temperatures. Roots must never be allowed to dry out. Acidify soils as needed. This species reportedly tolerates more neutral soils than most azaleas. Culture: Mulch annually with a loose material like pine needles, bark, or chopped oak leaves. Clip off spent flower clusters immediately after bloom as practicable. Uses: Bonsai, Mass, group or specimen. Shrub borders, mixed borders, woodland gardens and shade gardens. Also effective in foundation plantings or as a hedge. Sowing Rhododendron schlippenbachii Seeds: The seeds of Royal Azalea are extremely tiny. Wear your glasses and don’t breath while handling. Sow indoors. For best results, please follow the instructions in the order provided. Germination: Surface Sow at 55° to 64°F in acidic potting mix or peat.For more information about seed pretreatment and growing trees and shrubs from seed, please download this .pdf:https://cdn.forestresearch.gov.uk/2007/08/fcpg018.pdf Germination: Seeds Packets are labeled with seed name and sowing details. Seeds have not been pretreated unless specified in the listing. Seed is not a specific Cultivar (Variety) unless specified in the listing. Due to the many factors involved in successful germination, Seller cannot be responsible for buyers growing methods or mistakes. I have provided what I believe to be a good overview on this page (which you are free to print for further reference), however, it is still recommended to check specialist literature for more details and practices specific to your climate and soil conditions to avoid mistakes in the germination and growing process. Shipping and Discounts: All items are set up to automatically discount as follows: Any promotional offers are discounted by using the “Add to Cart “only.To qualify for any discounts, items must be paid together, on the same eBay invoice.If paid separately, no discounts will be applied though seller reserves the right to ship together.If there are any questions or concerns about the amount due, please message me before paying so I can address all of your concerns before there is a problem. Buyer assumes responsibility once payment has been made. 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