Azalea 'Persil'

Description: A striking Knaphill Azalea producing magnificent heads large pure white flowers which are nicely scented and have a prominent deep yellow orange flare in the throat. Flowers in mid-late May. One of the most flamboyant varieties and in autumn the leaves turn beautiful shades of red and orange.

Uses: Good when planted in large groups in a shrub border or woodland edge.

Climate/Position: Partial shade.

Height/Spread: 1.2m x 1.5 metres in 10 years - up to 2 metres eventually.

Soil Requirements: Rhododendrons prefer soils with a low pH or peaty/ ericaceous soil to avoid chlorosis or yellowing of the leaves. Soil should be moist and well drained.

Pruning: Generally avoid pruning. Flower stalks can be pinched out (by finger and thumb rather than secateurs) when flowering is complete. Well established plants will respond well to regenerative pruning if required.

Special Requirements: Applying a mulch regularly around the plant will help moisture retention in the soil. Where plants struggle a little if not grown in soil with low pH, then Rhododendrons will always benefit from an annual feed of sequestered iron to ensure the plants do not suffer from iron deficiency which is indicated by interveinal chlorosis or yellowing of leaves between the veins

Additional Interest: Azalea are a variety of Rhododendron that will produce very colourful shrubs in Spring/Summer. Flowers have 5 stamens whereas rhododendron have 10 stamens or more.

Raised at Exbury Gardens in Hampshire.