What are the colors of azaleas
Whenever spring is full, azaleas all over the mountains and fields can always decorate the earth with gorgeous colors. This plant, known as the "Beauty of Flowers", is not only famous for its rich color spectrum, but its unique growth form also creates its special position in the horticulture world. Let us explore the biological characteristics of rhododendrons through color representations. The color pedigree of rhododendron The classic chromatographic distribution ranges from flame-like scarlet to snow-like pure white. The rhododendron spectrum spans warm and cold tones. Among them, the red color system accounts for 43%, including 7 subdivided levels such as cinnabar red and agate red; the purple color system is mainly blue and purple and Roland purple, which mostly appear in alpine varieties; in recent years, through genetic improvement, gradient two-color varieties have been cultivated, such as the "Colorful Clouds Chasing the Moon" with red and white overlapping, and the "Golden Silk Nishang" with yellow and pink gradient. Mechanism of pigment formation The change in color color results from the difference in cell fluid pH: acidic environment causes anthocyanins to appear red, neutral purple, and alkaline blue. Due to the lack of pigment cells, white varieties form visual white by reflecting all light. Research found that for every 500 meters increase in altitude, color saturation increases by 15%, which is closely related to ultraviolet light intensity. Analysis of the biological characteristics and plant structure of rhododendron A typical deciduous shrub has a layered branch structure, and the new branches show a unique reddish-brown color. The degree of leatherization of leaves is related to the variety: the thickness of broad-leaved leaves is 0.3mm, and the thickness of narrow leaves can reach 0.5mm. The root system is distributed in a whisker shape, and the main absorption layer is concentrated within 20cm of the topsoil. This structure makes it extremely demanding on soil permeability. Ecological adaptability In its native Gaoligong Mountain, Yunnan, rhododendrons have evolved a unique survival strategy: waxy leaves reduce transpiration, and fluffy leaves store dew on their backs. The golden growth temperature is 15-25℃, and the dormancy protection mechanism is activated when the temperature exceeds 30℃. It is extremely sensitive to soil pH, with the optimal range of 4.5-5.5. If it exceeds 6.0, yellow leaf disease will occur. The key points for azalea maintenance are the "three-hour sunshade method" for light and moisture management: 70% of the light is blocked from 10-15 hours, and full light during the rest of the period. A siphon watering system is used to keep the substrate humidity within the range of 40%-60%. The air humidity needs to be maintained above 65%, and can be humidified three times a day through the atomization system for 10 minutes each time.
From colorful colors to exquisite structure, azaleas show the magic of natural creations. This plant, which combines ornamental value and ecological value, is constantly taking on a new look through modern gardening techniques. When we stop to watch the next time, we can not only feel the visual shock, but also understand the life story told by each petal.