Azaleas and rhododendrons are literally thrown into one pot again and again. Although they have a lot in common, they are fundamentally different.
In general usage, there is often no distinction made between azaleas and rhododendrons. But is that actually correct? Is there really no difference between these two types of plants and are they in fact synonymous plant names? The following guide reveals to what extent a rhododendron does not necessarily have to be an azalea and what the crucial difference is between these very similar plant species. In order to understand why many people use these two plant names interchangeably, the interested reader first learns what similarities rhododendrons and azaleas have.
Common features of both plants
These two types of plants are deciduous trees, which are characterized by an attractive bloom. Both plants are mostly kept outdoors. These plants are often found in parks, gardens and botanical gardens. Because they grow as large bushes, azaleas and rhododendrons are also popular with home gardeners who want a little privacy and want to protect their home garden from prying eyes.
❖ Loose and acidic soil
The fact that azalea and rhododendron soil is available in specialist shops shows that the plants make almost the same demands on their soil. The care of rhododendrons and azaleas is also identical, so that the plant names are to be used synonymously, at least in this respect. Both types of plants like a loose, acidic soil that is supplied with enough water. This ensures lush flowering of the plants. It is not uncommon for the leaves of the plants to be hidden for the flowers during the flowering period.
❖ Exotic plants prefer partial shade
The fact that many azaleas and rhododendrons are poisonous also unites the plants. They also have in common that only a few of these plants are originally native to Europe. These deciduous plants originate primarily in Asia and North America. Partially shaded locations like theseplants very much. In combination with conifers as background plantings, the bright blossoms of the rhododendrons and azaleas come into their own even better.
❖ Easy-care early bloomers
It can also be stated that both types of spring bloomers are comparatively disease-resistant plants. They can grow in one location for many years without the need for regular pruning. However, these shrubs should not be planted too deep in the ground, otherwise they can suffer from a harmful lack of oxygen.
❖ Enhancement in every garden
All in all, rhododendrons and azaleas impress as relatively easy-care, colorfully flowering, attractive and undemanding plants that can also beautify a small garden. Even for shady gardens, these plants are an asset, although all interested hobby gardeners should definitely know the most important difference between these two plant types before deciding on one or the other variety. The next paragraph explains why this knowledge is so important.
What is the difference between azaleas and rhododendrons?
Although these plants are very similar, the key difference is that azaleas shed their foliage in winter. Classic rhododendrons, on the other hand, do not do this. They are also green in winter, while azaleas are deciduous plants. However, this only applies to outdoor azaleas. Garden azaleas bloom from May to June.
❖ Evergreen Rhododendrons
Since azaleas shed their leaves in winter, these hardy plants are only of limited interest as privacy screens, since this protection is not available during the cold season. Rhododendrons are therefore more advantageous than privacy protection. In the case of rhododendrons, it should also be noted that they can suffer from unsightly sunburn even in winter. This must be considered when choosing the location when planting, while this problem simply does not exist with azaleas.
❖ Rhododendrons not suitable as a houseplant
There are also azaleas that are only to be kept indoors. Indoor azaleas also bloom in winter, although rhododendrons can generally be found outdoors due to their size. Indoor azaleas come mainly from Japan and China, while the Indian azalea has also made a name for itself as a houseplant in Europe. As small-leaved shrubs that are evergreen, azaleas are indoorsto keep in a cool climate.
❖ Azaleas more filigree than rhododendrons
In general, azaleas are characterized by a somewhat more filigree growth than rhododendrons. It is therefore a question of personal taste which flowers are best suited to your own garden. Whether in white, pink, yellow or orange and red, the color spectrum of azaleas is extremely versatile and can therefore be compared with the variety of colors of the various types of rhododendron.
❖ Azaleas as a subspecies of Rhododendrons
In view of the many things that rhododendrons and azaleas have in common, it should come as no surprise that azaleas are considered a subspecies of rhododendrons. It can be said that there are far more rhododendron species than azaleas.
The following azalea varieties are of great importance worldwide:
❀ Potted Azalea
❀ Japanese Azalea
❀ Western Azalea
❀ Garden Azalea
❀ Flame Azalea
❀ Pontic Azalea
❀ Indian Azalea
❀ Five Petal Azalea
Rhododendrons, on the other hand, are a comparatively huge genus of plants that belong to the heather family. Around a thousand species are grouped under the name "Rhododendron", although by no means all of these species are represented in this country. Accordingly, azaleas make up only a negligible part of this genus.
Conclusion: Anyone who notices that azaleas lose their foliage in winter and are only a tiny subgenus of rhododendrons knows the most important difference between these two plant species.