Azorina

Description

Azorina is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Campanulaceae. It consists of only one species, Azorina vidalii, which is native to the Azores, an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Azorina vidalii is also known as Blue-rimmed hydrangea because of its blue flowers with white edges. It is a small shrub that can grow up to 60 cm in height and 90 cm in width.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Campanulaceae
Genus	Azorina

Appearance

Azorina vidalii has attractive foliage, with dark green leaves that are oval in shape and have a glossy texture. The leaves are clustered at the end of the stems, which gives the plant a compact and bushy look. The blue flowers of Azorina vidalii bloom in spring, and they have a trumpet-shaped corolla with five petals that are fused at the base. The flowers are about 2.5 cm in diameter and have a white edge, which gives them a distinctive look.

Care Guide

Azorina vidalii requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers to grow in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Azorina vidalii should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Azorina vidalii is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Azorina vidalii is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Azorina vidalii can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.

Habitat

Azorina vidalii is endemic to the Azores, where it grows in rocky areas and on cliffs along the coast. It is adapted to the maritime climate of the Azores, which is characterized by mild temperatures and high humidity.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Azorina vidalii an evergreen plant?

A: Yes, Azorina vidalii is an evergreen plant that retains its foliage throughout the year.

Q: Can Azorina vidalii be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Azorina vidalii can be propagated from softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.

Q: Does Azorina vidalii require pruning?

A: Azorina vidalii does not require pruning, but it can be trimmed after flowering to maintain its shape and size.

Q: How often should Azorina vidalii be fertilized?

A: Azorina vidalii should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Related Plants

• Hydrangea macrophylla
• Campanula carpatica
• Lobelia cardinalis
• Heuchera americana

References

• “Azorina vidalii”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 27 October 2021.
• “Azorina vidalii”. Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved 27 October 2021.
• “Azorina vidalii”. Plant Finder. Retrieved 27 October 2021.