Azalea Splendours Variegated
Azalea Splendours Variegated is a compact evergreen azalea with soft pink, semi-double flowers and distinctive variegated foliage. The blooms open in spring and sit well against the patterned leaves, which carry creamy-white margins on a deep green base. The plant grows to around 0.6 to 0.9m high and wide, making it well suited to smaller gardens and containers.
This azalea works in a cottage garden, a Japanese-style planting, or a mixed shady border. Use it as a single specimen to show off the foliage, or group several plants together for a layered effect. It pairs well with other azaleas in white or deeper pink tones, and also sits comfortably alongside ferns and shade-tolerant groundcovers.
Grow Splendours Variegated 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, or dry positions.
Water regularly through the first summer and during any dry spell after that. 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 pet households.
Trimming: Trim lightly immediately after flowering in late spring to keep the plant compact and tidy. Azaleas flower on old wood, so avoid cutting back hard. Remove any dead, weak, or crossing stems at the same time.
Deadheading: Deadheading is not essential. You can remove spent blooms by hand to neaten the plant, but leaving them does no harm and the plant will continue to grow well without intervention.
Fertilising: Feed in spring with a fertiliser formulated for azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons. A light second application after flowering supports new growth and helps set next season's buds. Avoid over-feeding, as the shallow roots are sensitive.
Watering: Water regularly through the first summer to help the plant establish. After that, water deeply during dry spells. Mulch around the base to hold moisture and protect the shallow root system from heat.
Pest Control: Watch for aphids, thrips, two-spotted mite, and scale insects. Check the undersides of leaves regularly and treat early with a suitable spray or horticultural oil if numbers build up.
Disease Management: Free-draining soil, good airflow, and prompt removal of fallen leaves and spent flowers prevent most problems. Avoid waterlogged or heavy soil, which encourages Phytophthora root rot. In humid, still conditions, watch for powdery mildew and improve air circulation where possible. Check foliage occasionally for pale, swollen leaf gall caused by Exobasidium; pick off affected growth and bin it.
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.
