Starstyle White Azalea

Starstyle White Azalea (Rhododendron indicum 'Starstyle White', sold in the trade as Azalea indica) covers itself in pure white flowers from late winter into spring, then settles back to a neat evergreen shrub about 90cm tall and 90cm wide. That suits a low informal hedge, a shaded border or a pot beside a doorway. Like every azalea it is toxic to cats and dogs.

Why you'll love it

• White flowers when little else is out. The main display runs from late winter into spring, filling the gap before the warm season shrubs get going.
• A shade plant that flowers properly. Most heavy flowering shrubs demand full sun. This one prefers filtered light, so it works under established trees.
• Compact and predictable. A natural 90cm by 90cm shape means it fits a narrow bed without a pruning regime holding it back.
• Comfortable in humidity. It handles humid subtropical summers as well as cool temperate winters, so it works across a wide slice of the country.

Where it works best

Low informal hedging. Plant 60cm apart for a soft hedge to around 90cm. Azaleas do not take formal shearing well, so plan on a relaxed rounded edge rather than a crisp face.

Borders and mass planting. The same 60cm spacing gives a continuous sweep of white in flower and a clean green base the rest of the year.

Pots and small gardens. A pot 400mm or wider with an acidic mix suits it long term, and puts the flowering where it is seen close up.

Growing Starstyle White Azalea in Australia

Position and climate. Filtered light, or morning sun with afternoon shade. Hot afternoon sun burns the leaves and shortens the flowering. It suits subtropical, warm temperate and cool temperate gardens, and takes light frost only, so hard frosting districts need a sheltered spot.

Soil. Acidic, free draining and rich in organic matter, which is the one requirement that decides whether the plant thrives or slowly yellows. Work compost and aged pine bark through the bed, keep the pH below about 6, and never let it sit in wet soil.

Water and feed. Roots are shallow and fine, so it dries out quickly. Water deeply twice a week through the first two summers and mulch 50mm deep, kept clear of the stem. Feed with an azalea and camellia fertiliser after flowering, not before.

Pruning. Trim immediately after the last flowers finish, taking up to a third off to keep the plant dense. Wait any longer and you will cut off the buds forming for next season.

What to expect when it arrives

We grow it in three sizes: tube stock, 140mm in packs of ten and 200mm in packs of six. Tube and 140mm plants are young, usually 15cm to 25cm tall, and take two to three years to make a hedge. The 200mm plants are bushy and will usually flower in their first season with you.

Azaleas travel reasonably well, though open flowers rarely survive the trip and some bud drop is normal. Plant into acidic, well prepared soil and expect a quiet six weeks before new growth appears. Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95 and a minimum order of $300 before delivery. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• The complete azalea care guide for Australian gardens
• Browse the full azalea range
• How to lower soil pH for acid loving plants
• Shrubs that flower in partial shade

Common questions

Is it safe around cats and dogs?

No. Every part of an azalea is toxic to cats and dogs, and eating even a small quantity of leaves can cause vomiting, weakness and heart problems.

How far apart should I plant it for a hedge?

Sixty centimetres apart in a single row gives a low informal hedge around 90cm tall within two to three years. Keep the row in similar light, because a plant in deeper shade flowers noticeably less.

Why are the leaves turning yellow?

Usually soil pH. Azaleas cannot take up iron in alkaline soil, and the leaves yellow between green veins as a result. Test the pH and mulch with aged pine bark.