A dainty kurume azalea with masses of small, hose-in-hose deep rose-pink blooms with paler centres on a neat, twiggy bush. Lovely in pots and low edging. All parts contain grayanotoxins and are toxic to pets and people.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 1 m H × 1 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Kirin Azalea
Botanically, Rhododendron kurume 'Kirin' is a slow-growing shrub in the Ericaceae family. It reaches around 1 m tall and 1 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Pink flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Kirin Azalea
Kirin Azalea suits warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Kirin Azalea does best in acidic and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 60 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Kirin Azalea is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Kirin Azalea after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Kirin Azalea in the garden
Kirin Azalea earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, a feature or specimen planting and a fast screen or informal hedge. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Kirin Azalea with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children.
Buying Kirin Azalea
Plant Sale lists Kirin Azalea as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.