PLANT OF THE MONTH

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Ericaceae (Rhododendron family)

Vireyas, Azaleas & Agapetes

Here in the Pacific Northwest, we are familiar with rhododendrons, the most visible member of the Ericaceae family in our gardens. They have tropical cousins in the subgenus Vireya, of which the Conservatory has a diverse collection. Vireya species, growing in Southeast Asia, number over 300, approximately one third of all rhododendrons.

Vireyas were introduced to Britain in 1845. Vireyas mostly grow in the cooler areas in the tropics, either as epiphytes high in the tall trees of the cloud forest, or in more open ground in shrubby areas. They may bloom sporadically all year round, and we feature them whenever in bloom in the Seasonal House or Fern House.

Decidous and evergreen hardy azaleas are also familiar in our gardens here, and we often see brightly colored florist azaleas offered in flower shops for interior home décor. These are hybridized evergreen plants bred to be forced into bloom at any time of year. Some are winter hardy, and some are not. Florist azaleas are featured in our Seasonal House in winter.

Another interesting genus in the Conservatory Ericaceae collections is Agapetes, a sub-tropical, epiphytic woody vine closely related to blueberries. Look for it clamoring above the pond or sometimes in a basket in the Fern House. Tiny red flowers hang like jewels in spring and fall.

More information can be found online at:
Azalea Society of America
American Rhododendron Society
Rhododendron Species Foundation and Botanical Garden, Federal Way, WA.

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