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Azalea
Rhododendron 'Hinodegiri'
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Ericales Family: Ericaceae Genus: Rhododendron Subgenus: Pentanthera  and Tsutsusi
Species
see text Source: The Rhododendron page, and some research.

Azaleas are flowering shrubs making up part of the genus Rhododendron. Originally azaleas were classed as a different genus of plant, but now they are recognised as two of the eight sub-genera of rhododendrons - subgenus Pentanthera (deciduous) typified by Rhododendron nudiflorum, and subgenus Tsutsusi (evergreen) typified by Rhododendron tsutsusi.

An azalea flower close up

One of the major differences between azaleas and the rest of the rhododendron family is their size. Another is their flower growth. Rhododendrons grow their flowers in clusters, while most azaleas have terminal blooms (one flower per flower stem). However, they have so many stems that during the flowering season they are a solid mass of colour. Azaleas are recognised by these flowers blooming all at once, in a showy display for a month or two in spring. The exception to this rule is a small group of azaleas which grow their flowers in tight terminal clusters that look like little balls of colour.

Plant enthusiasts have created hybrid azaleas for hundreds of years. This human genetic modification has produced over 10,000 different cultivars which are propagated by cuttings. For a thorough discussion of some of the species and plant care, see this link. Azalea seeds can also be collected and germinated.

Azaleas in bloom

The Satsuki azalea group, derived from Rhododendron indicum and related species, are very popular in Japan.

Azaleas grow best in well-drained acidic garden soil or in plant pots, in a cool, shady position. Fertilizer is optional, although some species do need regular pruning.

The city of Mobile, Alabama is noted for its magnificent azalea bushes which line the city's oldest avenues. Each year, the city selects 50 local, female high school seniors as Azalea Trail Maids, to act as the city's official ambassadors. Each maid wears a pastel antebellum-style dress; however, only the queen is permitted to wear pink. Mobile hosts an annual foot race known as the Azalea Trail Run.

Several commercial nurseries in Semmes, Alabama, a suburb of Mobile, are major national suppliers of azaleas.

A traditional alcoholic beverage made from azalea blossoms, called dugyeonju (두견주, literally "azalea wine"), is produced in Korea [1].

Main article: List of azalea diseases

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Azalea