Comparing Azalea varieties — notes from growing several

I've grown several varieties within the Azalea family and have some observations to share. wide range from ground-covering species to large specimens varies noticeably between them, more than catalogue descriptions suggest. The care fundamentals are shared — pruning at the right time of year for the specific species applies across all of them.

leggy and open growth habit from insufficient light affects some more than others, particularly in adverse conditions. I grow mine in a low-maintenance foundation planting around a house which works well for most varieties. autumn berries and foliage colour is the clearest moment of differentiation between varieties — that's when the character of each comes through. Worth growing a few side by side if you have the space.