Rhododendron stenopetalum 'Azaare02' STARSTYLE™ LILAC

Rhododendron stenopetalum is a rare evergreen to semi-deciduous azalea with thin flower petals and linear leaves thanks to which it is called spider azalea. It is native to Japanese islands Honshu and Shikoku. The oldest (and the only) known variety from until 20th century was Linearifolium but as the horticultural world is hungry for new and unique plants more varieties are being bred and selected in the new millennium.

StarStyle™ is a series of semi-deciduous azalea developed by Hilde and Matthijs Barendse from a Dutch nursery Kwekerij Arends in Paterswolde. So far in consists of 3 colours: purple pink, lilac, and white. StarStyle™ Lilac bears lilac violet non-scented flowers with narrow petals. Blooming begins in May and lasts for 2-3 weeks and in late summer the shrub re-blooms with a few flowers. Its leaves are semi-deciduous, narrow to almost linear, dark green, rather matte, slightly hairy, and tinged deep maroon from winter until late spring. They remain evergreen through mild winters and after cold winters they dry out and are replaced with new foliage after flowering.

Annual growth is only about 10-20 cm and the shrub exhibits a dense, mounding habit. Its branches are quite fragile therefore we suggest using a protection against passing animals. Thanks to delicate flowers and fine foliage it looks exotic.

Semi-deciduous azaleas are ericaceous plants which, just like their Japanese sisters, prefer semi-shaded position sheltered from the hottest midday sun, and constantly moist soil. During temporary summer dry spells in certain areas their leaves may suffer and be prone to fungus infections. When spots appear on the leaves or they lose colour and start to curl use a suitable fungicide immediately. 1-2 sprays should help the plant remain beautiful and healthy. They require no pruning. Should you need to shape or rejuvenate your plant do so as early in the spring as possible so that it can still make new twigs with flower buds for the next season. It re-sprouts reliably. It has many surface roots which spread to sides in search for nutrients and water. The best soil mixture consists of peat, lime-free compost and leaf-mould. This azalea has not been tested in all possible conditions but so far has proved hardy to -20°C (USDA zone 6b).

Last update 27-05-2023