Coral bells azalea is a perennial shrub with many-branched stems that typically grow to 3-6 feet tall. The leaves are oblong to lanceolate, and the blooms are large and beautiful. The flowers are deep pink or purple, and they have a very strong, sweet fragrance. Coral bells azalea is native to Japan and Korea, and it is widely cultivated in Europe and North America. This plant is very popular as an ornamental, and it is often used in landscaping.
Related plant:
Proud Berry Coral Berry
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Coralberry
About soil condition, coral bells azalea prefers rich, humusy, well-drained soil with a neutral to acidic pH. It does not do well in heavy clay soils. If you have clay soil, consider amending it with compost or other organic matter before planting. Coral bells azalea also requires consistent moisture, especially during the warmer months when it is actively growing.
Just like other azaleas, coral bells azaleas require plenty of sun to thrive. If you live in a colder climate, make sure to choose a spot in your yard that gets at least six hours of sunlight a day. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade will be appreciated. Once you've found the perfect spot, prepare the soil by adding some organic matter to help retain moisture.
The temperature condition of coral bells azalea is warm. They need a temperature of at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit to grow and thrive. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but they will not flower or produce fruit at this temperature. The ideal temperature for coral bells azalea is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 and 50%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will become dry and start to drop off. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and the plant will become more susceptible to fungal diseases.
Mentioning fertilizer, usually the plant gets what it needs from the soil. However, coral bells azalea benefits from an annual application of fertilizer in early spring. A general-purpose fertilizer with an analysis of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 is fine. Use 1/2 cup for each plant. If you're using a granular fertilizer, scratch it lightly into the soil surface. If you're using a liquid fertilizer, irrigate it in well.
Pruning coral bells azalea is best done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Cut back the plant by one-third to one-half its height, making sure to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Propagation is generally done by division, as coral bells azaleas do not produce viable seed. The best time to divide coral bells azaleas is in the spring, just as new growth is beginning to emerge. Simply dig up the entire plant, divide it into several sections, and replant each section in a new location. Be sure to water well and mulch the newly planted sections to help them get established.
Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the cultivar planted. The growth rate varies from very slow to rapid. The factors that affect the growth rate of coral bells are the amount of sunlight, watering, and soil type. Also, some coral bells are simply slower growers than others.
Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot. These can all be treated with fungicides. If you see any of these problems on your plant, be sure to treat them as soon as possible.
Source:
Heuchera or Coral Bells | Horticulture and Home Pest News
Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs Profiles Australian ...
Growing Azaleas and Rhododendrons | MU Extension