The Azalea is actually a species of Rhododendron. Over 1000 species of rhododendrons/azaleas exist. The small, deciduous species are referred to as the Azalea and the large, woody shrubs as Rhododendrons. The Rhododendron is more toxic but this can vary drastically due to the hybridization of these two common plants. These plants contain grayanotoxins which disrupt sodium channels affecting the skeletal and cardiac muscle. All parts of the plant are considered poisonous, and as little as ingestion of 0.2% of an animal’s body weight can result in poisoning. When ingested, clinical signs include gastrointestinal signs (e.g., drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, inappetance), cardiovascular (e.g., abnormal heart rate, heart arrhythmias, weakness, hypotension), and central nervous system signs (e.g., depression, tremors, transient blindness, seizures, coma, etc.). The overall prognosis is fair with treatment.
Azaleas bloom in the spring (April and May in the temperate Northern Hemisphere, and October and November in the Southern Hemisphere), their flowers often lasting several weeks. Shade tolerant, they prefer living near or under trees. They are part of the family Ericaceae
Ericaceae
The Ericaceae (/ˌɛrɪˈkeɪsi. aɪ, -iː/) are a family of flowering plants, commonly known as the heath or heather family, found most commonly in acidic and infertile growing conditions.
Select a location that has morning sun and afternoon shade, or filtered light. Hot all-day sun can stress the plants and make them more susceptible to pests. Azaleas also require well-drained, acidic soil.
Some cultures believe the flower symbolises taking care of yourself and those around you. Therefore, it forms a perfect gift when you need to wish someone a quick recovery. Additionally, sharing it with a loved one is an ideal way to communicate your affections.
Azaleas prefer a little sun and a little shade. Plant them in blazing hot sun and they may suffer leaf scorch or become targets for leaf-sucking pests, such as spider mites and lace bugs. Plant them in dense shade and they won't bloom.
Azaleas have shallow root systems compared to other shrubs; most of their roots stay in the top 4 to 6 inches of soil. As you might guess, this makes them very susceptible to water stress and drought. Keep azalea soil evenly moist, so it never dries completely out and never stays overly wet.
Many gardeners think azaleas and rhododendrons prefer to grow in deep shade. The truth is they need some light to do well. Too much shade can lead to leggy growth, sparse foliage growth, and few to no flowers.
They are particularly useful in small, shaded gardens when grown in pots and containers. A rhododendron or evergreen azalea in a pot will bring year round interest and colourful spring blooms to shady situations where other plants fail to perform.
Plant them in dense shade and they won't bloom. A good location is where they receive either dappled sun all day or sun in the morning and light shade in the afternoon. Good places might include spots under trees, or along the north side of your house.
Grow azaleas in a sheltered spot in partial shade. Many cultivars suit planting at the edge of a woodland border. Smaller varieties look best at the front of a border, or in pots. Indoors, grow azaleas in a well-ventilated, bright spot away from too much direct sunlight.
Azaleas, like most shrubs and trees, can be planted in spring or fall. Fall is preferred because the dormant season gives roots time to grow. Summertime heat and drought can cause stress. If you plant azaleas in the spring, be sure to mulch well and water throughout the summer.
Azaleas in a more shaded area and cooler climate prefer less water, about two or three times a month. If planted in a sunnier and warmer climate, water azaleas about one to two times a week. Keep in mind that azaleas are shallow-rooted plants and need to be kept moist, but are unable to tolerate soggy soil.
Introduction: My name is Saturnina Altenwerth DVM, I am a witty, perfect, combative, beautiful, determined, fancy, determined person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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