The original order of 400 azaleas that established the azalea garden in 1922 came from Ghent, in Belgium, and contained Mollis hybrids and Ghent hybrids. However, these two double-flowered plants are the last remaining true Ghent hybrids from that original order. The Ghent hybrids are bred from the American species R. viscosum, R. periclymenoides and R. calendulaceum plus the Eurasian R.luteum. Although most azaleas in the garden are Mollis hybrids and only two of the original Ghent hybrids remain, the Ghent influence is evident in Denis Hughes Tapanui-raised Blue Mountain azaleas. These are also on display in the azalea garden and several are scented, with two-toned double flowers and in autumn, glowing red foliage.

Source: Otago Daily Times November 10, 2016 17:03 UTC