Habitat:
The Evergreen azalea (rhododendron indicum) is native to Japan. Its specific geographical origin is South and West Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Yakushima. In Japan, it specifically grows among rocks and ravines. It prefers to live in moist soils, and can grow in light shade. It prefers a tropical climate zone, and its native habitat is terrestrial.
Origin, history, and uses:
The first Rhododendron to be classified was named R. hirsutum and was first discovered in the 16th century by Flemish botanist: Charles L’Ecluse or Clusius. Evergreen Azalea (R. indicum) originated from China and Japan and was first classified in the 17th century. Most evergreen azaleas originated in Japan, but some came from China, Korea or Taiwan. Several deciduous azaleas are native to North America while others originated in Eastern Europe, Japan, China and Korea. Others come from hybrid crosses. The first American azaleas were planted on a plantation near Charleston, South Carolina and have been associated with Southern gardens ever since
Phenology:
Summer, Fall and late Spring: Summer leaves are smaller, dome shaped and concentrated below terminal buds, dimorphism of leaves apparent when full leaves appear, showing red sprouted flowers bloom from late Spring through Fall. No bloom in Winter and early Spring. Evergreen azaleas keep most of their foliage year round. Require partial shade and protection from direct sun and wind. Tend to grow 6 feet or less with a mound-like shaped. Bloom in a variety of forms including strap-like, star-shaped or round petals. Bloom in flowers of white, purple, pink, red, orange
