Water
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly in winter. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Torch Azalea (Rhododendron kaempferi) is a vigorous, large evergreen shrub known for its profuse bright red-orange flowers in late spring.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial shade preferred
50% intensity
Prefers dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade. Avoid intense, direct sun.
Regular watering needed
75% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
Acidic, well-drained, humus-rich soil.
50% intensity
Hardy
50% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures, but prefers protection from harsh winds and extreme heat.
Occasional feeding required
50% intensity
Use acid-specific fertilizer in early spring after flowering.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly in winter. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
Prune immediately after flowering to shape the plant and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning as it can reduce flowering for the following year.
Pinching young shoots can encourage bushier growth.
Best propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining, moist medium. Alternatively, air layering can be successful.
Seed propagation is possible but often results in variation.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years in spring, or when root-bound, using an acidic, well-draining potting mix. Mature plants generally do not require frequent repotting and prefer to be left undisturbed.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Torch Azalea (Rhododendron kaempferi)
Where Torch Azalea (Rhododendron kaempferi) 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 kaempferi |
Similar in genus Rhododendron
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
