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“JAPANESE SPECIES COLLECTION” (ARSV) (ARS) “JAPANESE SPECIES COLLECTION” (ARS) “JAPANESE SPECIES COLLECTION”

The Japanese Azalea Species Garden: A Vision Reborn

Project Leader : Prue Crome

Written by : James Pethybridge

Nestled within the Japanese Teahouse precinct of the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is a project born of both passion and necessity. Known informally as the Japanese Azalea Species Garden, this collection represents a vital effort by the Australian Rhododendron Society Victorian Branch (ARSV) to preserve rare botanical heritage while creating a breathtaking new landscape for visitors.

Preserving a Botanical Legacy

The seeds for this project were literally and figuratively sown decades ago. In 2019, while exploring the rear of the gardens, members were struck by the spectacular sight of R. dilitatum var. satsumense—a glowing halo of pink emerging from an overgrown thicket.

Investigation into the ARSV database revealed that this area contained plantings dating back to 1977, originally grown from wild-collected seeds from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and China. With 34 species recorded—many of them solitary specimens—the ARSV recognized an urgent need to safeguard these plants, as importing wild-collected seed is no longer possible.

From Hidden Thicket to Prominent Display

Starting in 2020, a dedicated effort was launched to identify unlabeled plants and take cuttings. The goal was to relocate these species from their hidden corner into a more prominent location where they could be curated and appreciated.

The collection features “Azaleas” from the Tsutsusi, Brachycalyx, and Sciadorhodion sections, including:

  • Deciduous gems: R. mariesii, R. reticulatum, R. weyrichii, R. albrechtii, and R. sanctum.

  • Unique evergreens: R. tashiroi, R. rubropilosum, and R. kanehirae.

Designing the New Landscape

The Japanese Teahouse area was chosen for its cultural synergy and existing beauty. While the Prunus Walk is already a major drawcard for its autumn color and spring blossom, this new garden adds a layer of depth to the spring season.

Working in collaboration with Parks Victoria staff Ben de Baptista and Steven Panther, the site was transformed throughout 2023 and 2024. The design features:

  • Architectural Mounds: Taller evergreen azaleas provide a permanent green backdrop along the ridges.

  • Contoured Groupings: Alternating deciduous and smaller evergreen species occupy lower areas to create a sense of movement.

  • Visitor Spaces: Intimate grassed areas and newly installed seating invite visitors to linger.

Propagation and Future Growth

The project has not been without its challenges. Some deciduous species are notoriously difficult to propagate, often struggling during winter dormancy. However, a new regime in the Rouse House—utilizing 12-hour light cycles for cuttings—is showing very positive results.

In addition to the species collection, a significant Satsuki azalea collection (donated by Margaret Smith and safeguarded by John O’Hara) was planted at the Teahouse entrance in late 2024.

A Springtime Destination

Though still in its early years, the Japanese Azalea Species Garden already feels special. As these plants mature, the vision of vast drifts of pink, lilac, and salmon flowers will become a reality, ensuring this area remains a “must-see” destination for every visitor to the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden.

For more information on the ARSV and our conservation efforts, explore the rest of our collection at rhododendron.com.au.

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