Rhododendron kaempferi Eucharis - Japanese Azalea

The 'Eucharis' Japanese Azalea, also known by its Latin name Rhododendron x kaempferi, is an evergreen bush with dense, apple green foliage in spring, which perfectly highlights the large pure white flowers with chartreuse undertones at their centre.

The 'Eucharis' Azalea forms a compact, round-shaped  bush that reaches 70cm (27.6in) in height and spread at maturity. Its persistent, ovate, slender, and leathery leaves are light green in spring. During the month of May, this small bush forms clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers that measure 5cm (2in) in diameter. They are of a beautiful pure white colour with a chartreuse green undertone at their centre, reminiscent of the Amazon Lily, a perennial bulbous flower widely used for cutting. This azalea belongs to the "kaempferi" group, which includes medium-sized hybrids (typically 4 to 5cm (1.6 to 2in) in diameter) developed in the Netherlands in the 1920s.

Hardy down to -15°C, the 'Eucharis' Japanese Azalea requires a position without direct sunlight. Ideally, plant it in partial shade, in a location protected from cold and dry winds. With slow growth, this small heathland bush prefers cool, humus-rich, well-drained soil with an acidic tendency. 

The 'Eucharis' Azalea adorns heathland beds all year round with its persistent foliage and enlivens gardens in spring with its numerous white flowers. Plant it on a slope, in a shady rockery, or as a border plant alongside Pieris, Heather, Kalmia, Andromeda, Chinese Azaleas, and Japanese Maple. Japanese Azaleas are sometimes grown in pots, but they are also worked into Bonsai by specialists, creating stunning pieces.