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Overview
Kurume azalea is a group of evergreen Rhododendron azalea that have been originally cultivated in Kurume which is an area near Fukuoka in Japan.
The dominant parent is generally agreed to have been Rhodoendron obtusum and they tend to be low growing and have smaller flowers that are very brightly coloured and appear in profusion usually covering the entire crown of the plant.
These dwarf hybrids grow to around 1m or so and they have small, dark green, oval shaped and leathery textured foliage.
The hose-in-hose (sepals give impression of second layer of petals) shaped flowers are small, musky pink and very prolific. They grow well in pots or in the ground and is quite hardy.
Kurume azalea grow best in filtered sunlight, avoid planting in areas with full sun in spring and summer.
Kirin is one of the most popular Azaleas of all in Australia and gets its name from the town of Kirin in Japan.
Soil: Well-drained soil with high organic matter content is important. Azaleas prefer a soil that is slightly acid and ensure there is a good layer of mulch to maintain moisture levels.
The biggest problems with azalea are due to poor drainage causing the roots to rot or lack of water causing the roots to dry out. Careful selection of the appropriate location and good preparation of the soil before planting will greatly increase the plant's chance of thriving.
Maintenance: Water well in dry conditions as roots are shallow. Fertilise in early spring after flowering, again in summer and again in autumn with an Azalea & Camellia formulated fertiliser. Water before and after application. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
Diseases: Generally pest and disease free but watch out for lace bugs and spider mites.
Other Species: Azalea hybrid groups:
Evergreen, Gable, Glen Dale,Indica, Kaempferi, Oldhamii, Shammarello, Vuyk
Deciduous, Ghent, Knap Hill and Exbury, Mollis, Ilam, Occidential, Rustica
Comments: Rated by some as one of the best all round Azaleas to grow in Australia - due to its flowering capacity, overall toughness and versatility under different light conditions.
This style of azalea was originally created by Motozo Sakamoto in the early to mid 19th century. They were originally bred for bonsai cultivation and proved to be very popular on initial introduction.
Today over 700 cultivars have been registered.
Author: Bob Saunders.