Rhododendron simsii aka Azalea

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Azalea is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Azalea should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Azalea loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Azalea prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

During the cold period, it is common for Azalea to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

No extra humidity is necessary for the Azalea. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.

The Azalea is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

Azalea’s native range is Asia and North America.