Azalea Kermesina

Azalea ‘Kermesina’

Overview

• Botanical name: Rhododendron ‘Kermesina’

• Plant type: Evergreen azalea

• Group: Kurume hybrid

• Use: Ornamental shrub for borders, woodland gardens, rock gardens, and containers

Flowers

• Colour: Bright crimson to deep red

• Bloom time: Mid to late spring

• Form: Small, funnel-shaped flowers produced in dense clusters

• Fragrance: Not scented

Foliage and Habit

• Leaves: Small, glossy, dark green evergreen leaves

• Growth habit: Compact, low, spreading to rounded

• Mature size: Approximately 0.6–0.9 m tall and 1–1.2 m wide (2–3 ft tall)

Growing Conditions

• Light: Part shade to full sun

  • Best flowering with some sun; protection from strong afternoon sun is beneficial

• Soil: Acidic, moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter

• Water: Regular watering required; soil should remain evenly moist but not waterlogged

Care and Maintenance

• Mulching: Mulch with bark, pine needles, or leaf mould to retain moisture and maintain soil acidity

• Feeding: Use an ericaceous fertiliser in spring and again after flowering if required

• Pruning: Minimal; prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain shape

• Hardiness: Hardy in temperate climates, roughly equivalent to USDA Zones 6–8

Seasonal Interest

• Spring: Masses of vivid red flowers

• Summer: Dense evergreen foliage

• Autumn and Winter: Year-round structure from evergreen leaves

Wildlife and Safety

• Attractive to bees and other pollinators

• Toxic if ingested by pets or livestock

Notes

• Excellent for low hedging, edging paths, and container planting

• Sensitive to lime; unsuitable for alkaline or chalky soils unless grown in ericaceous compost

• Shelter from cold, drying winds improves winter appearance