Satsuki Azalea
Satsuki azaleas are evergreen hybrids derived chiefly from Rhododendron indicum and selected in Japan for late flowers. They bloom in late spring to early summer, extending azalea season after many older types have finished. Flowers are large, often with striking stripes, margins, or flecks on the petals. Plants are smaller than Southern Indicas and mature slowly. Cold hardiness is modest compared to Kurume types, so they suit Zones 7 to 9 best. They also take to containers and are widely used for bonsai.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Satsuki Hybrids (evergreen)
- Height × spread: 3-6 ft × 3-5 ft (0.9-1.8 m × 0.9-1.5 m)
- Bloom window: late spring to early summer
- Color & flower form: large single flowers; frequent variegation and patterning
- Fragrance: 0 to 1; varies by cultivar
- USDA hardiness: USDA zones 7 to 9
- Breeder / Year / Origin: various; centuries of selection; Japan
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Blooms weeks later than many evergreen azaleas.
- Showy, oversized flowers with diverse patterns.
- Lower stature and slower growth than Southern Indica types.
- Less winter hardy than Kurume azaleas.
Strengths
- Extends color into early summer.
- Strong display in light sun compared with deep shade.
- Suited to containers and bonsai training.
- Many compact cultivars for small sites.
Care in one minute
- Place in morning sun with afternoon shade to prevent scorch.
- Soil: acidic and well drained; amend clay and plant slightly high; mulch 2-3 in (5-8 cm).
- Water consistently during dry spells; do not allow prolonged drought during bud set.
- Lightly prune or pinch immediately after bloom; avoid summer shearing.
- Use a light, acid‑forming fertilizer after flowering if growth is weak.
Watch‑outs
- Winter injury in cold Zone 7 and north.
- Leaf scorch under hot afternoon sun without irrigation.
- Root rot where soils stay wet or heavy.
Best uses (tags)
late season, containers, borders, bonsai, foundation, shade‑tolerant
Provenance note
Satsuki types were refined in Japan over centuries and are prized for patterned blooms; they were promoted in North America and are commonly represented by cultivars such as ‘Gumpo’ and related selections.
References
- UF/IFAS – Satsuki azaleas extend bloom
- Arkansas Cooperative Extension – Satsuki Azalea
- NC State Extension – ‘Gunrei Satsuki’ profile (culture notes)
- ASPCA – Azalea (Rhododendron spp.) toxicity
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
We are a small independent group of flower lovers who research and review each guide using trusted horticultural and educational sources. Learn more about us