|The Mollis hybrids were developed in Belgium and Holland from
original azalea seeds from Japan. They are derived from crosses
between R. japonicum (Japanese azaleas, formerly A. mollis) and
R. molle (Chinese azaleas, formerly A. molle). Tall, upright,
deciduous shrub that is cold hardy down to -10 degrees F. Leaves
are obovate to oblong, medium green, 2 to 4 inches long. Flowers
are borne in large, showy trusses in mid-spring just before the
leaves emerge. The deciduous hybrid azalea, like it's native
counterpart, is known for excellent fall color and unsurpassed
spring flowers. The deciduous azalea is usually less picky about
soil conditions, though it too prefers well-drained and acid
conditions. Though azaleas have a potentially large list of
possible pest and disease problems, they are usually trouble
free if planted correctly in proper cultural conditions.