Add a touch of the tropics to your garden with Vireyas, the tropical rhododendron. Well suited to Auckland’s climate, Loved for their bright colour, flowers range in sizes and are set in clusters that are tube shaped.
Planting Calendar
Vireya are best planted during Spring, Summer and Autumn.
Prepare
Position
Vireya need good light levels to grow well and can grow in full sun to part shade, although they do prefer protection from the scorching midday sun. Wind can cause damage to the flowers and branches so protect from high winds.
Soil
When planted into the ground, Vireya likes a free draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. Vireya like slightly acidic soil so the Peat added at planting will provide acidity. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains added water storage crystals and Saturaid, two products that help maintain moisture in the soil.
Plant
Gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball. Back fill the hole mixing in Kings Compost, Sheep Pellets. Position the plant so that the top of the roots sits proud of the surrounding ground level. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Garden Booster It is important not to plant your Vireya too deep, they do best when they are planted slightly ‘proud’ (meaning the plant remains slightly up above ground level, and soil is mounded up around the roots) this method of planting ensures good drainage and mimics their natural habitat, where they cling to rocks and grow almost above ground. Vireya do not like their roots to be disturbed, so take care when planting not to damage them.
Care
Beginner Tip
Wet or waterlogged soil is one of the main things that affets Vireya. Good drainage is essential.
Tip
Vireya do not like lime, so avoid planting in areas where lime is used
Top Varieties
Tropic Glow
Flowers 2-3 times a year providing masses of stunning, orange trumpet-shaped flowers with a golden yellow throat. Grows around 1.5m
Gilded Sunrise
Generally flowers several times a year, producing a mass of gorgeously showy flowers. Grows around 1.8-2m
Kisses
This compact-growing vireya is ideal for pots or the ground and produces a stunning display of pale pink flowers. Grows around 0.9 -1.2m
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my leaves going all spotty?
This may be because your viyeas have Thrips. Take a picture of your plant and come instore to show our plant doctors for treatment options and advice.
When is the best time to plant Vireya?
The best time to plant Vireya is during the cooler months of spring or autumn. This allows the plant to establish roots before the heat of summer or the chill of winter.
How often should I water my Vireya?
Vireya do not tolerate wet feet, water to keep the soil just damp.Try not to let them dry out.
How do I prune Vireya?
Vireya naturally grow somewhat leggy, the more shade they are in the leggier they can grow. To reduce legginess pinch out every second growth flush.
What is a Vireya?
Vireya is a type of tropical rhododendron native to Southeast Asia. They are known for their stunning, vibrant flowers and are well-suited to Auckland's climate.
