Deciduous Azalea cumberlandense 'Sunlight'

Wonderful deep orange rose and gold flowers in June-July. This clone has stunning dark green quilted foliage turning brilliant plum red in autumn. A good selection collected by O. Holmsomback from Gregory Bald, North Carolina and grown to first flower by Mrs Hill. Height 120-150cm in 10 years. Rarely available elsewhere.

• Recommended for smaller gardens.
• Easy to grow.
• Ideal position: most garden situations.
• Habit: compact, spreading.
• Parentage: wild origin selection from cumberlandense.
• Hybridization date: pre 2000 (1968).
• Bred by: Mrs J.W. Hill.
• Origin: American.
• Ideal soil: pH 4.5 to 6.
• RHS Hardiness Rating: H6.
• How we usually propagate this plant: Cutting.

Good to know

From a botanical point of view, deciduous azaleas are part of the rhododendron family, but typically they only have 5-7 stamens in the flowers instead of 11-13 stamens present in other rhododendrons. They make a dazzling display, particularly in yellows, oranges and reds, but can also be very subtle in shades of pink and white. They are tough and fast growing plants typically reaching 125-150cm in 10 years. Our selection ranges from the discreet small flowered species and Ghent varieties, to the bold large flowering Knaphill and Exbury types. Many have the added value of a good scent in spring, and fiery autumn colours before leaf fall. Our newest introductions greatly extend the season into late June and July.

Deciduous azaleas have a stronger root system and will tolerate poorer conditions and a slightly higher pH than other rhododendrons. They can be grown in soils up to pH 6.5 when plenty of ericaceous compost is added. They prefer light dappled shade, but can also be grown in sun or more shade. In sun, the plants will be bushier and lower, with more flowers, but these will not last so long. In shade, the plants will be taller, with fewer flowers, but these will last longer.

All require good moist ericaceous soil with a high organic content. For a guide to plant spacing, use the height we give in 10 years as a guide to the distance between each plant, or approximately 1 plant per 1.5m². Plant no deeper than the top of the rootball, and dig in plenty of good ericaceous compost around the sides.  A teaspoon of slow release feed is sufficient for a 3 litre plant, rising to a small handful for a mature plant.  They are tough plants, and tolerate growing in containers, where their flowers, scent and autumn colours can be appreciated. Re-pot every 3 years for best performance.

Please note: Plants supplied in winter months can look quite bare and stick-like, and may be pruned back to encourage more branching. This is normal, and they will soon fill out in the spring.


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