The Japanese Azalea (Rhododendron japonicum, also known as 'Rose Tree') is a very robust, hardy plant. Since the extremely richly flowering shrub also prefers shady locations, it is wonderfully suitable for many gardens with trees or many shrubs.
The Japanese azalea has no problem with snow and cold
Garden Azalea vs. Indoor Azalea
But be careful when buying, because if it says 'Azalea' on it, it doesn't necessarily contain a Japanese Azalea. A rough distinction is made between hardy garden azaleas (the Japanese azalea) and non-hardy room azaleas. The latter come from the subtropics and tropics of Southeast Asia and would not survive a German winter. They are just houseplants. Be sure to pay attention to the following designations:
- Japanese Azalea
- garden azalea
- Rhododendron japonicum
- Azalea mollis
Here you can access without worry, because it is always the hardy version. However, if only 'Azalea' is on the label, it is usually indoor azaleas.
Japanese Azalea - Need Winter Protection Or Not?
Usually, Japanese azaleas don't need winter protection, unless
- these are very young plants.
- the winter is very cold, but without snow (kahlfrost).
- the ground is frozen (roots can no longer absorb water).
In these cases you can cover the root area with reed mats or similar. You should also use frost-free days to water the plant. Prolonged ground frost sometimes means that the flat-rooted plant can no longer absorb moisture and simply dries up.
Overwinter potted azaleas properly
Since the Japanese azalea rarely gets higher than two meters and can also be kept in check by pruning, it is often cultivated in tubs. Of course, tub azaleas are also hardy, but different rules apply to them with regard to overwintering. Since the roots cannot withstand the frosty outside temperatures due to the planter and the small amount of soil, you must provide the necessary protection. To do this, place the container on a base made of polystyrene or wood and wrap the bucket with reed mats or fleece. A protective stand near a heat-emitting wall is also useful.
tips
Before the spring shoots, check the plants for possible frost damage - this particularly affects the evergreen varieties of the Japanese azalea. Don't be alarmed by curled leaves, this causes the plant to protect itself from excessive moisture loss through evaporation.