A deciduous mollis azalea with large golden-yellow blooms flushed orange, carried in showy trusses in spring before rich autumn leaf colour. All parts contain grayanotoxins and are toxic to pets and people.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 1.5 m H × 1.2 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Christopher Wren Azalea
Botanically, Rhododendron mollis 'Christopher Wren' is a moderate-growing shrub in the Ericaceae family. It reaches around 1.5 m tall and 1.2 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage. Orange and yellow flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Christopher Wren Azalea
Christopher Wren Azalea suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Christopher Wren Azalea does best in acidic and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Christopher Wren Azalea does best with regular, moderate watering. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Christopher Wren Azalea after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Christopher Wren Azalea in the garden
Christopher Wren Azalea earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, pots and courtyard containers and its fragrance. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Combine Christopher Wren Azalea with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
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 Christopher Wren Azalea
Plant Sale lists Christopher Wren Azalea as potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
