Hinode Giri Azalea (Azalea kurume 'Hinode Giri') is a petite evergreen shrub, about 1m high and wide, that hides its leaves each spring under a cloud of raspberry pink, five petalled flowers. In the cooler months the foliage turns deep bronze, so the plant has something to offer in winter too.
Why you'll love it
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A flower cloud in spring. The blooms are produced in such numbers that they cover the bush completely.
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Bronze winter foliage. The green leaves darken to bronze in colder months, which gives winter colour as well.
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Flowers in shade. It will flower even in deep shade, which makes it useful in spots where other flowering shrubs sulk.
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Low maintenance. It needs only a post-flowering trim and a yearly feed, and it is reputedly rabbit-resistant.
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Takes a light frost. Once established, it tolerates light frost.
Where it works best
Low hedges. Plant 70cm apart in a single row. The small, dense shrubs merge into a spring hedge that is solid with raspberry pink flowers.
Mass displays. In groups of five or more, 80cm apart, it makes a carpet of colour beneath trees or along a shaded fence.
Pots. Its small size suits containers on a patio or verandah, where you can enjoy the spring flowers up close.
Growing Hinode Giri Azalea in Australia
Position and climate. Azaleas love dappled light, with morning sun, afternoon sun or both. Full sun is acceptable but not in a hot, dry, exposed position, and this one also flowers in deep shade. It suits subtropical, warm temperate and cool temperate gardens, and tolerates light frost once established.
Soil. Moist, free draining soil rich in organic matter is ideal. Azaleas prefer acid ground, so mulch with pine bark and keep lime away from the roots.
Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until established, usually around 12 weeks, then continue watering regularly for the first twelve months. Azaleas do not like drying out. Feed with a slow release fertiliser formulated for azaleas.
Pruning. Prune after spring flowering to promote a dense habit and flowers next season. A light trim is enough.
What to expect when it arrives
We sell Hinode Giri Azalea as tube stock, 140mm pots in packs of 10 and 200mm pots in packs of 6. Tube stock is a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly, and it is the economical choice for a long hedge, while the pots arrive with more growth already made.
Because tube stock comes from our grower, it sells out from time to time. A sold out tube means the grower has none today, and the notify button on the page emails you the day more is available.
Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.
Plant care guides and related reading
Common questions
Will it flower in deep shade?
Yes. It is known for flowering even in deep shade, although a little dappled light produces the heaviest display.
Why do the leaves turn bronze in winter?
That is normal. The leaves darken to bronze in colder months, and the green returns as the weather warms. It is not a disease or a sign of stress.
Is it safe for pets?
No. Azaleas are toxic to cats, dogs and other animals if chewed or eaten. Plant it away from pets that browse on garden plants.