Azalea yedoense 'Poukhanense'

Azalea yedoense 'Poukhanense': Evergreen Elegance with Spring Impact

A classic Korean azalea with enduring garden appeal, 'Poukhanense' delivers a profusion of lavender-pink blooms in mid-spring, often before the new foliage fully emerges. The semi-evergreen leaves remain on the plant through much of the winter, especially in sheltered or milder locations, adding year-round structure. Broad, spreading, and densely branched, this reliable azalea is both beautiful and practical—an ideal choice for woodland edges, foundation groupings, or filtered sun locations where it can thrive with quiet confidence.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 1.2–1.5 m (4–5 ft)
• Spread: 1.5–1.8 m (5–6 ft)
• Flower Colour: Lavender-pink with magenta spotting
• Flowering Period: Mid to late spring
• Foliage: Semi-evergreen, dark green with bronze tints in fall
• Sunlight Requirements: Part shade to filtered sun
• Soil Requirements: Acidic, moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter

Uses and Benefits: Best used in woodland gardens, shaded foundation beds, or massed along the edges of tree canopies. 'Poukhanense' offers reliable spring colour and structure in sites where full sun may be too intense for many shrubs. Its evergreen quality lends year-round substance, while its flowering provides a burst of colour in the transitional season. A great backdrop or middle layer in mixed shrub borders.

Care Instructions: Prefers cool, acidic soil rich in humus; amend planting sites with compost or peat moss as needed. Keep soil evenly moist, particularly during hot spells. Mulch annually to conserve moisture and protect roots. Prune lightly just after flowering to shape or control size—avoid late-season pruning to preserve next year's flower buds.

History: Originating from Korea and named after Mount Pukhansan, 'Poukhanense' is a proven cultivar of Azalea yedoense, valued for its cold tolerance, strong flowering, and adaptable habit. It has been a staple in North American landscapes for decades, offering beauty and dependability in equal measure.

Final Thoughts: For gardeners seeking a spring-flowering shrub that holds its own through the seasons, 'Poukhanense' offers timeless appeal and structure. It’s a versatile performer that bridges ornamental charm and practical landscape function with ease.