Azalea
- Small to large shrub
- Full to part sun
- Blooms 3 times a year
- Great in shaded areas or in containers
An Azalea bush, is a popular flowering bush and foundation plant, with bright spring blooms. Azaleas bushes are members of the Rhododendron family. The biggest difference between the Rhododendron plant and an Azalea plant, is the Azalea is a deciduous bush. It sheds its leaves in the fall. The Rhododendron plant is an evergreen. In general, an Azalea bush is smaller in height, leaves, and blooms.
Most varieties of Azaleas grow two to eight feet tall. Fragrant blooms put on a show in the spring in white, lavender, bright orange, gold, red and purple colors. Smaller in size, Azaleas are poplar potted plants as gifts for Easter and Mother’s Day. After blooms die,transplant azaleas outdoors.
Selecting a location is important. Azaleas can be harmed or killed by sustained winds. Select a location out of the direct sunlight, if possible. Protection from strong midday sun is important. Otherwise the leaves dry out and burn. Northern exposures are best. A low lying area, or one protected by a building or a hedgerow is a good choice. Azaleas prefer a moist soil. It is important to water the plants during extended dry spells, even in the fall.
