Japanese Azalea

Azalea Japonica, also known as Rose tree or Rhododendron, is one of the most appreciated variants by the bonsai tree artists because of its little and dark leaves, the rough trunk with spokes-like nebari springing out of it, and the white, pink or purplish flowers that the branches are normally covered in, that give spectacular blooming over spring. It loves slightly humid and bright environments, but not direct sun light: It should ideally be positioned near a bigger plant that can give it some shade. It needs frequent watering with rain or demineralised water and pruning should only be done when 2 or 3 of its flowers have wilted. Much like other plants belonging to the Ericaceae family, this one also needs acid soil (pH 4,5-5,5): blond peat, sand, or kanuma, a particular kind of Japanese clay.