Poukhanense Compact Azalea

Rhododendron yedoense is a dependable azalea for small gardens, naturalized areas, or foundation plantings. Poukhanense Compact Azalea also goes by the name Korean Azalea, a reference to its native growing region. The perfumed pale lilac flowers absolutely smother this broadleaf evergreen from mid-spring to early summer, making a fantastic backdrop for spring bulbs and early blooming herbaceous perennials. 

Poukhanense Compact Azalea is extremely cold hardy and heat tolerant, which explains why it is routinely used in modern hybridization programs. The smallish, deep green foliage is fully evergreen and displays deep shades of purple when temperatures drop in the fall and winter. Disease resistance is high as well as tolerance for light deer browsing. 

Poukhanense Compact Azalea is quick to establish in a landscape, allowing it to be planted either in the spring or late summer. Compact Azaleas are relatively drought tolerant after establishment and require little annual maintenance. Grow Poukhanense Azaleas as part of a foundation planting, informal hedge along a fence or property line, or planter display near the entryway to your home for year-round interest.    

Poukhanense Compact Azalea Care

Azaleas require well-draining soil, moderate fertility, acidic to neutral pH, and full sun. Soil that is too alkaline results in yellowing foliage and poor blooming. 

Fertilize annually in the early summer with a product made specifically for acid-loving shrubs and trees.  A time-release, granular formulation provides support through the growing season. Azaleas benefit from mulching with organic materials such as compost, shredded leaves, or pine straw. 

Water newly planted shrubs 2-3 times a week with 1 inch of water to ensure the roots establish deep in the ground. Container-grown plants will need watering more often, not letting more than 2-3 inches of the potting mix to dry between sessions. 

Poukhanense Compact Azalea is a self-cleaning shrub and does not require deadheading by hand. Lightly trim the branches to control seasonal growth after flowering ends in the early summer. Poukhanense blooms on the previous season’s growth and develops flower buds in late summer. Rejuvenation pruning is rarely required but is well tolerated by most azaleas. Remove no more than one-third of the overall growth, and stagger the pruning over 3 years to reduce pruning stress to the shrub. 

Poukhanense Compact Azalea Spacing

The compact Poukhanense Azalea reaches a height and spread of 4 feet after 10 years. Space multiple plants 3 feet apart from the plant center to create an informal blooming hedge. Containers with at least a 20-inch diameter are ideal for growing this azalea alone as a specimen plant.