Rhododendron schlippenbachii, commonly known as Royal Azalea, is a deciduous shrub native to the temperate forests of East Asia, particularly Korea, Japan, and parts of Russia. It typically grows to 4.5 meters (15 feet) in height, but more commonly reaches 1–2 meters (3.3–6.6 feet) tall. The Royal Azalea is known for its attractive, broadly funnel-shaped flowers, which range in color from white to pink, often adorned with small red spots on the upper three petals. These flowers are quite showy and bloom in late spring to early summer, creating a spectacular display. The fruit is an egg-shaped, glandular-hairy capsule that ripens in October.

The Royal Azalea is valued for its beautiful spring flowers and is often used in woodland gardens, shrub borders, and as a specimen plant. It is also a popular choice for bonsai. This shrub prefers acidic, well-drained soils and thrives in part shade, though it can tolerate morning sun with adequate moisture. While it is generally easy to maintain, it can be susceptible to pests such as lace bugs and diseases like root rot if not properly cared for. It is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.CC BY-SA 4.0