Azalea (Rhododendron 'Irene Koster')
The Azalea ‘Irene Koster’ is a hybrid azalea. To determine its likely geographic origin, we need to consider the parentage of azaleas in general, and what might have contributed to this specific cultivar.
* **Azaleas (Rhododendron species)** are native to several regions:
* **Asia:** Many azalea species originate from eastern Asia, particularly China, Japan, and Korea. These species have contributed greatly to the genetic background of many modern azalea cultivars.
* **North America:** A significant number of native azaleas are found in the southeastern United States.
* **Europe:** Some rhododendron species (related to azaleas) are native to Europe.
* **’Irene Koster’ Specifics:** This cultivar is part of the *Rhododendron* genus.
Considering this:
The Azalea ‘Irene Koster’ is most likely to have origins in **East Asia or North America (Southeastern US).** Hybrid azaleas often combine traits from both Asian and American species, with European hybridization playing a role in development.