Evergreen Azalea (Rhododendron species)

Summary

Foliage: Evergreen broadleaf

Height: 3 to 8 feet (depending on cultivar) Spread: 4 to 8 feet (depending on cultivar) Shape: Upright, spreading

There are hundreds of evergreen azalea cultivars which vary in hardiness, size, form, flower color, time of flowering, and foliage. The primary attractive feature of azaleas is the very attractive and showy flower display in spring.

Plant Needs

Zone: 5b to 9 (depending on cultivar)

Light: Partial shade

Moisture: Moist to average

Soil Type: Sandy to loam to clay loam

pH Range: 3.7 to 6.5

Functions

Suggested uses for this plant include massing, border, and foundation plant.

Planting Notes

Plant azaleas in a site that has afternoon shade to protect plants from the hot summer sun. Do not plant in poorly drained or heavy soils. Plant in well-drained, acid soil.

If drainage is a problem, plant in raised beds, or install drainage tile to drain water away from plants. Evergreen azaleas should be primarily selected on the basis of their hardiness (tolerance to low winter temperatures), so consult local garden center personnel to determine what azaleas are suitable for your plant hardiness zone.

Care

Spread a good, organic mulch to control weeds, maintain soil moisture, and protect tender shallow roots.

To maintain form and size, pinch off soft, new shoots of vigorous growing plants soon after flowering.

Problems

Iron chlorosis (leaves turn yellow between veins, but veins remain green) is a problem in high pH soils. Some common insect problems are the azalea lacebug, aphids, leaf miners and tiers, scale insects, and whitefly.

Common diseases are Phytophthora root and crown rot, Ovulinia petal blight and powdery mildew.