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(Rhododendron kiusianum)
Kyushu Azalea (Rhododendron kiusianum)
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Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Kenraiz | Publisher: Wikipedia Commons
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Rhododendron kiusianum, commonly known as Kyushu Azalea, is a deciduous or semi-deciduous shrub native to the mountainous regions of Kyushu, Japan, where it thrives in acidic, well-drained soils of open woodlands and forest edges. It typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and a width of 3 feet (0.9 meters). The Kyushu Azalea is known for its dense, mound-like form and its small, leathery leaves that provide a backdrop for the profusion of pink and purple flowers that bloom in late spring. The flowers are highly showy and attract pollinators, adding ornamental value to the garden.
This plant is valued for its compact size, making it suitable for small gardens, rockeries, and as a foundation planting. It is also a popular choice for bonsai due to its small leaves and flowers. In cultivation, Kyushu Azalea requires acidic soil with good drainage and performs best in full sun to part shade. It is relatively low maintenance but benefits from mulching and occasional pruning to maintain its shape. While it is generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils. It is also sensitive to extreme cold and may require protection in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0
This plant is valued for its compact size, making it suitable for small gardens, rockeries, and as a foundation planting. It is also a popular choice for bonsai due to its small leaves and flowers. In cultivation, Kyushu Azalea requires acidic soil with good drainage and performs best in full sun to part shade. It is relatively low maintenance but benefits from mulching and occasional pruning to maintain its shape. While it is generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils. It is also sensitive to extreme cold and may require protection in colder climates.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Pink, Red
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous, Semi-Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Mountainous regions of Kyushu, Japan, in open woodlands and forest edges
Other Names
Common Names: Dvärgazalea, Miyama-Kirishima
Scientific Names: , Rhododendron kiusianum, Rhododendron obtusum var. japonicum, Rhododendron indicum f. japonicum, Rhododendron indicum subsp. japonicum, Rhododendron indicum var. japonicum,
GBIF Accepted Name: Rhododendron kiusianum Makino