Rhododendron eriocarpum (Hayata) Nakai

Description

Dwarf indica (gumpo) azalea is a woody, rounded, broadleaf semi-evergreen shrub in the Ericaceae (blueberry) family that slowly grows to 1 to 2 feet high and wide. This small shrub or groundcover is native to the Ryukyu Islands in Japan.  The genus name derives from the Greek words rhodo, which means rose, and dendron, meaning tree. 

This slow growing plant prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Amend soil with organic matter especially in dense clay. It grows best in partial shade and needs protection from afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. Pruning may be done after flowering.  Dwarf indica is very frost tender and may not flower in cooler climates.

This azalea is moderately salt tolerant. The flowers are showy and attract bees and other pollinators so give it a home in a naturalized area or pollinator garden. Use in an accent in a foundation planting, as a small hedge, or plant in the front of a border.  It does well in containers or mass planted as a ground cover. 

Rhododendron eriocarpum (Dwarf Indica (Gumpo) Azalea) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (ncsu.edu)

 

https://youtu.be/7W6P6kaAKXY?t=1332