Rhododendron x hybridum 'Gunrei Satzuki'

‘Gunrei Satzuki’ azalea is a woody, densely rounded, deciduous hybrid shrub cultivar in the Ericaceae (blueberry) family. This dwarf shrub typically grows 2 to 4 feet tall and wide and its 2 inch pink flowers appear in the late spring to early summer. The genus name derives from the Greek words rhodo, which means rose, and dendron, meaning tree. 

Like all azaleas, ‘Gunrei Satzuki’ prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils in dappled shade and protection from afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. It does not tolerate dense clay, so if you have clay soil, amend with organic material. The roots may rot if soil does not drain well. Plant the root ball high in the soil to help with drainage issues. Avoid overwatering and over-fertilizing. Prune rhododendrons and azaleas after they bloom to preserve the current season's bloom, and allow time for the plant to produce flower buds for next year's bloom.  Rhododendrons and azaleas set next year's flower buds by mid to late summer. 

Use it as an understory shrub or groundcover planted in groups in woodland or naturalized areas. Because of its small size, it is good for small gardens and spaces or at the front of a bed. It also works as a specimen in a pollinator garden where the flowers will attract hummingbirds and bees. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Insect problems include aphids, borers, lace bugs, leafhoppers, mealybugs, mites, nematodes, scale, thrips, and whitefly. Diseases include canker, crown rot, root rot, leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. This plant is frequently damaged by deer.

While these shrubs remain very popular for landscape use, many cultivars are susceptible to Phytophthora root rot—this leads to leaf loss, reduced vigor, branch dieback, and wilting. Implement good cultural practices first, such as improving drainage with organic matter or berms and avoiding overwatering or overfertilization. However, if you have a site with a history of this disease, consider planting a root rot-resistant alternative species. 

For suitable alternatives, see this video created by Charlotte Glen as part of the Plants, Pests, and Pathogens series.

 VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Rhododendron.