Monrovia : Learn

Deep violet purple double blooms are extraordinary. Flowers heavily in spring and may rebloom sporatically throughout the year. Perfectly sized for residential applications producing lush, bright green foliage for beds, borders and background. A natural in the Japanese garden. Evergreen shrub. Full or part shade. Moderate growth 3 to 5 feet tall, 6 feet wide.

Performance and Requirements

Light needs: Filtered sun

Watering Needs: Needs wet or constantly moist soil.

Pruning Time: Spring after flowering

Growth Rate: Moderate Growing

Growth Habit: Round

Design Information

Companion Plants

NORMANDY RHODODENDRON
Rhododendron x 'Normandy' (H-1)

SEIRYU JAPANESE MAPLE
Acer palmatum 'Seiryu'

ORANGE FLAME OREGON GRAPE HOLLY
Mahonia aquifolium 'Orange Flame' P.P.# 2544

MAKINOI'S HOLLY FERN
Polystichum makinoi

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Companion Plants (Description): Group this vivid azalea with other acid loving plants such as Normandy Rhododendron, (Rhododendron x 'Normandy'), Seiryu Japanese Maple, (Acer palmatum 'Seiryu'), Orangee Flame Oregon Grape Holly, (Mahonia aquifolium 'Orangee Flame') and Makinoi's Holly Fern, (Polystichum makinoi).

Design Styles: Exceptional early spring color for beds, borders and foundation planting. Add to perimeter plantings. A natural large tree groves and the verges of wildlands or naturalistic landscapes. A traditional choice for Asian inspired gardens. Bold color for reflecting pools and water gardens.

Care Information

Follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Provide well drained soil, rich in organic matter. Feed with an acid fertilizer after bloom. Keep roots cool with a thick layer of mulch.

Background Information

History: Southern Indica azaleas (Azalea indica) are actually native to Japan and first introduced into Holland in 1680 but failed to catch on there. It reached America in the 18th century and became popular outdoor landscape plants in the warmer parts of the South. Fruitland Nurseries of Georgia was among the first to offer the emerging varieties for sale and extensive breeding both here and in Holland has produced a wide range of forms.

Lore: Large Southern Indica azaleas distinguish most of the great old gardens of the South including historic plantation homes.

Botanical Pronunciation: a-ZAE-lee-a

Catalog Description: Deep violet purple double blooms are extraordinary. Flowers heavily in spring and may rebloom sporatically throughout the year. Perfectly sized for residential applications producing lush, bright green foliage for beds, borders and background. A natural in the Japanese garden. Evergreen shrub. Full or part shade. Moderate growth 3 to 5 feet tall, 6 feet wide.