Indoor Plants
Outdoor Plants
Azalea ( Rhododendron )
A small shrub with masses of pink flowers that needs part shade and acidic soil – best in pots on shaded terraces.
- Light: Part shade
- Water: Evenly moist, not soggy
- Temperature: Dislikes extreme heat
Description
Azalea is a small shrub that covers itself in pink, funnel-shaped flowers in season. It loves part shade and moist, acidic soil, so in Saudi Arabia it does better in pots on shaded terraces and courtyards than in garden soil.
Why an azalea?
- Masses of pink flowers.
- A compact size for pots.
- Adds colour to shaded corners.
Where to plant it
In pots on partly shaded terraces, courtyards and balconies, away from midday sun and hot winds. The plant is toxic, so keep it away from children and pets.
Care in the Saudi climate
- Light: part shade or bright indirect light; not midday sun.
- Water: keep the mix moist but not soggy.
- Soil: an acidic mix – alkaline soil turns the leaves yellow.
- Water quality: low-salt water is best.
- Safety: toxic to pets and people if eaten.
Sizes
- 20–30 cm: Small plant (a small pot on a table or balcony).
- 40–50 cm: Larger plant (a pot on a shaded terrace).
Three things to get right.
Lighting
Give it part shade or bright indirect light.
Watering
Keep the mix moist and never let it dry out completely.
Temperature & humidity
Dislikes intense summer heat and hot winds; in summer keep it in the coolest shaded corner.
More shrubs.Pairs well with
It needs part shade, acidic soil and low-salt water, so we recommend a pot of acidic (ericaceous) mix in a shaded spot rather than alkaline garden soil.
Yes – ASPCA lists azalea as toxic to dogs, cats and horses, and it is harmful to people if eaten. Keep it away from children and pets.
Usually alkaline soil or water. Use an acidic mix and low-salt water.
Keep the mix moist but not soggy, and never let it dry out completely.
20–30 cm is a small plant for a small pot; 40–50 cm is bigger and fuller.