Azalea Popcorn
Azalea Popcorn is a compact evergreen azalea grown for its medium-sized double flowers in creamy white. The blooms open in spring and cover the plant in a soft, layered display that stands out in a shaded spot. Mature size reaches around 1 to 1.2m high and wide, making this azalea well suited to smaller gardens and containers.
This azalea fits naturally into a cottage garden or a Japanese-style planting. It also works well in a mixed shrub border alongside other flowering shrubs. Plant several together for a clean mass of white, or use it as a contrast beside pink or red azaleas. Single specimens lift a shaded corner or work on a sheltered deck in a pot.
Grow Azalea Popcorn in part shade or morning sun with afternoon shade. It needs free-draining, acidic soil enriched with compost. Mulch around the base to keep the shallow roots cool and retain moisture. Avoid exposed, hot positions, which stress the plant and affect flowering.
Water regularly through the first summer and during dry spells. Feed once in spring with a fertiliser formulated for azaleas and rhododendrons. Like all azaleas, this plant is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if eaten, so take care in households with pets.
Trimming: Trim lightly straight after flowering in late spring to maintain a tidy, compact shape. Azaleas flower on old wood, so avoid cutting back hard. Remove any dead or crossing stems at the same time.
Deadheading: Deadheading is not essential. You can remove spent blooms by hand to tidy the plant, but leaving them does no harm and saves time.
Fertilising: Feed in spring with a fertiliser formulated for azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons. A light second application after flowering supports new growth. Avoid overfeeding, as the shallow roots are sensitive.
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Water deeply through summer and during any dry spells. A layer of mulch helps retain moisture and protects the shallow root system.
Pest Control: Watch for aphids, thrips, two-spotted mite, and scale insects. Check leaf undersides regularly and treat early with a suitable spray or horticultural oil to keep populations in check.
Disease Management: Free-draining soil and good airflow around the plant prevent most problems. Wet or heavy soil increases the risk of Phytophthora root rot. Clear fallen leaves and spent flowers regularly to reduce fungal disease risk. In still, humid conditions, watch for powdery mildew and improve airflow where possible.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
