Azalea
Azalea Detailed Encyclopedia Introduction
Evergreen or deciduous shrub with vibrant spring blooms, popular in gardens and container displays.
Basic Info
Family：Ericaceae
Scientific Name：Rhododendron
Origin：Asia, North America
Flowering Period：Spring to early summer
Height：0.3-4 meters
Lifespan：Perennial
Morphology
Leaves：Elliptical or obovate, leathery or papery texture
Flowers：Funnel-shaped or bell-shaped, rich in colors
Roots：Shallow root system with well-developed fibrous roots
Stem：Multi-branched, woody
Growth Habits
Soil Requirements：Acidic, well-drained humus-rich soil
Watering Needs：Keep soil moist, avoid waterlogging
Light Requirements：Partial shade to filtered light
Temperature Requirements：15-25°C, cold hardiness varies by variety
Classification & Varieties
Main Classifications
Ornamental Varieties
Professional Care
✂️ Pruning Management
Pruning Timing：After flowering, autumn shaping
Pruning Method：Light pruning, remove weak and diseased branches
Pruning Purpose：Maintain plant shape, promote flowering
Required Tools：Pruning shears, disinfectant
🛡️ Pest & Disease Management
Common Pests：
Common Diseases：
Prevention Measures：Maintain ventilation, avoid excessive moisture, regular inspection
Treatment Methods：Biological control, chemical agents, physical control
🌱 Fertilization Management
Fertilizer Type：Acidic fertilizer, organic fertilizer, compound fertilizer
Fertilization Frequency：Once a month during growing season
Fertilization Timing：Spring budding period, after flowering, autumn
Fertilization Amount：20-50 grams per plant depending on size
💧 Water Requirements
Watering Frequency：Every 2-3 days in spring/summer, weekly in autumn/winter
Watering Amount：Water thoroughly but avoid waterlogging, keep soil moist
Watering Method：Water at root zone, avoid water on foliage
Dehydration Signs：Wilted leaves, dry soil, stunted new growth
Basic Care Tips
- •Choose acidic soil with pH between 4.5-6.0
- •Keep soil moist but not waterlogged during spring flowering
- •Provide shade in summer, avoid direct strong sunlight
- •Prune spent flowers promptly to encourage new growth
- •Protect from cold in winter, outdoor plants need mulching
Ecology Value
Pollinators：Bees, butterflies, moths
Wildlife：Provides nectar for insects, habitat for birds
Environmental Value：Beautifies surroundings, purifies air
Cultural Symbolism
Symbolic Meaning：Prosperity, beauty, homesickness, resilience
Historical Background：Traditional Chinese flower with over a thousand years of cultivation history
Related Festivals：Azalea Festival, Spring Flower Shows
Artistic Expression：Common subject in poetry and literature