An unusual, charming and long-established hybrid azalea, Rhododendron stenopetalum Linearifolium is a small, compact, semi-evergreen to evergreen shrub with an upright, open habit. The long, very narrow, slightly hairy leaves are mid-green, distinctive and very attractive. In April and May, the shrub bears very pretty, fragrant, bright pink to lilac-pink flowers, whose petals are heavily divided and almost linear, giving it its spidery common and species names. Be aware that spider azalea Linearifolium has rather brittle stems, so plant it out of the way of wind, dogs and children, and also where severe frosts can’t reach it. Do not let it dry out.
Site: Sheltered Soil: Reliably moist but well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil Position: Partial shade Season of interest: Almost all year, spring in particular Hardiness: Fairly hardy (to -10ºC) Height: 39” (1m) Spread: 39” (1m) (sometimes bigger)
