Kurume Azalea Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' (Kurume) (EA)
ABOUT
Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' (Kurume), commonly known as the Hino-crimson Azalea, is a much-admired flowering shrub known for its vibrant display. The plant boasts a dense, bushy growth habit, characterized by small, glossy, dark green leaves that provide a rich backdrop for the floral show. The blooms are the most striking feature of this Azalea, with an abundance of bright crimson flowers that cover the shrub in a spectacular fashion. Each flower has a funnel shape, which opens up from a budding swirl to a multi-petaled blossom. The contrast between the fiery red petals and dark foliage is quite stunning and provides a stunning visual impact in any garden or landscape setting. The appearance of Hino-crimson Azalea is truly a feast for the eyes, with its dazzling flowers attracting many admirers during its blooming season. This plant typically has a fine and dense texture, adding a lush and hearty look wherever it is planted. It is a choice cultivar for its hardiness and richly colored blooms.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Hino-Crimson Azalea, Kurume Azalea, Hino Crimson Kurume Rhododendron.
Common names
Rhododendron 'Hinocrimson', Rhododendron obtusum 'Hinocrimson', Azalea 'Hino-crimson'
ToxicityTo humans
The Azalea is toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains compounds known as grayanotoxins, which can interfere with normal cell function. Symptoms of azalea poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, weakness, dizziness, difficulty in breathing, and a drop in blood pressure. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to a coma or be fatal.
To pets
The Azalea is also toxic to pets, with similar compounds causing the toxicity. If ingested by animals such as cats and dogs, symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, central nervous system depression, cardiovascular collapse, and potentially death. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if a pet consumes any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Crimson
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' offers vibrant crimson red flowers that add a burst of color to gardens and landscapes.
- Compact Size: This Kurume azalea is a compact shrub, making it ideal for small gardens, borders, and under-story plantings.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it a suitable choice for busy gardeners.
- Year-Round Interest: It provides year-round interest with its evergreen foliage in addition to the spring bloom.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden.
- Adaptable: It can adapt to a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-drained, acidic soil.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant is tolerant of partial shade, allowing it to thrive in a range of light conditions.
- Seasonal Color: Its spring bloom provides a striking color contrast against the backdrop of other plants or mulch.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The blooms of Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' can be used to make natural dyes for fabrics, offering a range of colors from pinks to purples depending on the mordant used.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists and photographers often use the vibrant crimson flowers as a subject for their work, capturing the beauty of the plant in various forms of media.
- Culinary Garnish: While most parts of rhododendrons contain toxic substances and should not be consumed, the petals of some species may be used cautiously as a decorative, non-edible garnish for special dishes after ensuring they are safe for this purpose.
- Floral Arrangements: Rhododendron branches and flowers can be used in floral arrangements for events and ceremonies, adding a splash of color and volume to bouquets and centerpieces.
- Educational Tool: Horticulture educators and botany teachers use Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' to demonstrate plant growth, flower development, and pollination to students.
- Habitat Support: These plants can provide shelter and nesting sites for birds and beneficial insects within a garden or landscape setting.
- Watercolor Paints: The petals of Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' can be used to make watercolor paints, providing a unique, natural pigment for artists.
- Photography Backdrops: The dense, colorful blooms serve as a popular backdrop for portrait photography, especially in the spring when the shrubs are in full bloom.
- Symbolism in Cultural Ceremonies: In some cultures, Rhododendron flowers are symbolic and used in cultural ceremonies to represent various attributes like caution or beware due to their toxic nature.
- Land Reclamation: Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' can be planted in areas in need of vegetative restoration to help stabilize the soil and improve the aesthetic of the landscape.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rhododendron is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Rhododendron is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beware: Rhododendrons, including 'Hino-crimson', often symbolize caution due to their toxic nature. Every part of the plant is poisonous if ingested, which led to its association with danger.
- Warning: Similarly linked to its toxicity, the rhododendron can symbolize a warning to pay attention to what may appear beautiful but is actually harmful.
- Abundance: This plant's abundant flowers and lush foliage often symbolize growth and prosperity.
- Temperance: The rhododendron's ability to thrive in various climates represents moderation and the importance of adapting to different life conditions.
- Homecoming: In some cultures, the rhododendron is a symbol of returning home or the longing for familiar territory, as they often grow wildly where they are indigenous.
WaterThe Kurume azalea (Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson') prefers consistent moisture and should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This usually means watering about once a week, but frequency can increase during hot, dry periods. Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant's roots, and provide enough water so that it runs through the drainage holes—roughly 1 to 1.5 gallons for a medium-sized plant. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases and don't let the plant sit in water as this can lead to root rot.
LightKurume azalea thrives best in partial shade where it can receive dappled sunlight. Avoid direct, intense afternoon sun as it can scorch the leaves. A spot that offers morning sun followed by afternoon shade is ideal, or under the light canopy of taller trees that provide filtered light throughout the day. East or north-facing positions are typically suitable for optimal growth.
TemperatureKurume azalea enjoys moderate temperatures and can survive in temperatures ranging from approximately 20 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for active growth is between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate cold down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from harsh winter winds. High temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly with strong sun, can stress the plant, necessitating additional care such as mulching and shading.
PruningPruning Kurume azaleas is best done just after the blooms have faded, typically in late spring or early summer. Pruning at this time allows for shaping the plant without sacrificing next year's flowers, as it blooms on old wood. Remove dead or diseased branches, thin out dense areas to improve air circulation, and reduce the size of the plant if necessary. Prune sparingly as Kurume azaleas do not require heavy pruning and can take a few years to recover from drastic cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAzaleas like Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' thrive in acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 to 6.0. A mix of 50% pine bark, 30% peat moss, and 20% perlite or coarse sand provides good drainage and aeration. For best results, a layer of mulch can be added to help retain moisture.
RepottingAzaleas such as Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' typically need repotting every 2 to 3 years. When roots become visible at the drainage holes of the container, it's a clear sign that repotting is necessary to allow the plant to continue growing healthily.
Humidity & MistingRhododendron 'Hino-crimson' prefers moderate to high humidity levels, generally around 50-60%. Maintaining such humidity can be crucial to mimicking their natural environment and ensuring their health and vibrant flowering.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright indirect light, ensure high humidity and acidic soil.
Outdoor
Plant in semi-shade, moist, well-draining acidic soil.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' (Kurume), commonly known as Azalea, begins with germination from seed, although many cultivated varieties are propagated through cuttings to maintain desirable traits. After germination, the seedling stage involves the development of a root system and the first true leaves. As the Azalea enters the vegetative stage, it establishes a bushy growth habit with evergreen leaves and strengthens its root system. The maturity phase is marked by the plant's first bloom, showcasing clusters of crimson flowers in spring, usually reaching this stage within 2-4 years. Following the flowering period, pollination can occur, leading to seed formation for the continuation of the life cycle, although Azaleas are often reproduced vegetatively. Throughout its life, the Azalea will enter periods of dormancy during colder months, resuming growth and bloom cycles with the return of favorable conditions each spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagating Rhododendron 'Hino-crimson' is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in late summer. Select healthy, new growth that has started to firm up and cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) segment. Strip the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to increase the chance of successful rooting. Then, plant the cutting in a mixture of peat and perlite, ensuring that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged. Place the cutting in indirect sunlight and maintain a consistent humidity around the plant, which can be achieved by covering it with a plastic bag or dome. With proper care, the cutting will develop roots within a few weeks, after which it can eventually be transplanted to its final location.
