Azalea 'FEUERWERK'

Deciduous azaleas are probably the most striking flowering shrubs. Their colours are vivid and bright, and often have the shades that not many rhododendrons can offer. They need full sun.

In 1977 Hans Hachmann introduced a sensational deciduous azalea with the richest merge of red and orange colour. Its name is Feuerwerk (Fireworks) and it does look as if taken from the middle of a blazing fire. The individual flowers are large – 7-8 cm across, only lightly scented, and appear from mid May until early June. Deciduous leaves are soft green, oval to elliptic, and turn orange and red in autumn. This azalea received several awards, amongst other two golden medals: at Flora Nova in Boskoop 1987 and at IGA Rostock in 2003.

Deciduous azaleas are ericaceous plants, loving insulate position with always 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. Fully hardy to min. -34°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update 02-12-2012