Also known as Azalea · Christina Red Azalea · Little Rhodie
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Red Azalea (Rhododendron simsii) is a vibrant evergreen shrub prized for its profusion of bright red, trumpet-shaped flowers in spring.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Thrives in dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade; avoid intense direct sun.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers evenly moist soil; avoid drying out completely or waterlogging.
Acidic, well-drained, and rich in organic matter
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures, especially during dormancy; protect from extreme heat and frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with an acidic fertilizer after flowering and in early spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains grayanotoxins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and heart problems in pets and humans.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season and flowering. Use rainwater or filtered water to prevent mineral buildup.
Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid root rot.
Prune immediately after flowering to shape the plant and remove spent blooms. Avoid pruning later in the season, as this can remove flower buds for the following year.
Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and plant health.
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Select healthy shoots, dip the base in rooting hormone, and plant in a well-draining, acidic medium like peat and perlite.
Maintain high humidity and warmth for successful rooting, which can take several weeks.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years, or when rootbound, in early spring before new growth starts. Use a well-draining, acidic potting mix.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Red Azalea (Rhododendron simsii)
Where Red Azalea (Rhododendron simsii) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
| Species | Rhododendron simsii |
Similar in genus Rhododendron
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
