Spider Azalea

Rhododendron linearifolium

$23.00 Sold out
Very Rare

| Hardiness Zones 6-8

Rare Japanese Linear-Leaved Azalea | Evergreen | Unique Fuchsia Blooms

Rhododendron linearifolium, sometimes listed under Rhododendron macrosepalum ‘Linearifolium’, is a rare and extraordinary Japanese azalea prized for its distinctly narrow, linear foliage and delicate, ribbon-like fuchsia-pink flowers. Unlike most azaleas, which feature rounded leaves and clustered petals, this variety stuns with its elegant, spidery blooms that appear almost wispy in texture—offering a truly unique aesthetic in the spring garden.

A botanical curiosity and collector’s favorite, R. linearifolium is native to Japan and remains seldom found in cultivation in the U.S. Its slender dark green leaves create a graceful, fine-textured appearance and often persist through winter, making it essentially evergreen in milder climates (USDA Zones 6-8). It performs well in part shade with acidic, well-draining soil, much like other azaleas.

Whether tucked into a woodland garden, used as a focal point in a shaded border, or grown in a decorative container, this azalea brings delicate structure and rare form to any landscape.

Key Features:

  • Rare Japanese azalea with linear leaves and flowers

  • Unusual fuchsia-pink, ribbon-like blooms in spring

  • Evergreen to semi-evergreen in mild climates

  • Compact, fine-textured shrub with year-round interest

  • Ideal for woodland gardens, shade borders, or containers

  • Performs best in acidic, humus-rich, well-drained soil

Photos courtesy of Joanna Kossak.

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Grown for Success
Propagated at Woodlanders

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Shipping
Expertly packed & shipped in 2-4 biz days

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 6 - 8
  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Soil: Acid and Well-drained
  • Height at Maturity: 4 - 6 Feet
  • Spread at Maturity: 4 - 6 Feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate

Semi-Evergreen
Flower/Foliage

Pale pink, fragrant, April-May
Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements:

Prefers partial shade to dappled sunlight. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal, especially in hotter climates. Too much direct sun can scorch the narrow leaves and reduce flower production.

Soil Requirements:

Plant in acidic, well-drained, humus-rich soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0. Avoid heavy clay or alkaline soils. Incorporate organic matter such as pine bark, leaf mold, or compost to improve drainage and mimic woodland conditions.

Watering:

Keep soil evenly moist—not soggy—especially during establishment and dry periods. Azaleas are shallow-rooted and sensitive to drought stress. Apply a layer of mulch (2–3 inches) to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing:

Feed lightly in early spring with a slow-release, acid-loving plant fertilizer or an organic option such as cottonseed meal. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote excessive leaf growth at the expense of blooms.

Pruning:

Minimal pruning is needed. If shaping is desired, prune immediately after flowering to avoid removing next season’s buds. Remove dead or damaged branches any time of year.

Mulching:

Use pine straw, pine bark, or shredded leaves to mulch around the base. Keep mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot.

Winter Care:

Rhododendron linearifolium is hardy in USDA Zones 6-8. In colder zones, grow in a large container and overwinter in a sheltered location such as a cold frame or unheated garage. Even in zone 7, protection from harsh winter winds is beneficial to prevent desiccation.

Pests and Diseases:

Generally pest-resistant. Watch for lace bugs, spider mites, or root rot if soil is poorly drained. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Container Growing:

Can thrive in a large pot with acidic potting mix (e.g., camellia/azalea blend). Water regularly, and repot every 2–3 years or when rootbound. Ensure the pot has good drainage.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:

From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Read Care Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.