Garden Plant Guide: Azalea Shrubs Lee's Product Team, October 14, 2024October 14, 2024 Everything You Need to Know About Azalea Shrubs for Your Landscaping Azaleas are beloved flowering shrubs that bring vibrant colors and lush blooms to gardens in spring. With their diverse range of varieties, these shrubs can be used effectively in various landscaping designs, whether as foundation plantings, borders, or accents in mixed flower beds. Understanding the key characteristics of azaleas will help you choose the right types for your garden and provide them with the best care. AttributeDescription for Azalea ShrubsSizeRanges from 2 to 6 feet in height and width, suitable for various spaces.Insects & PestsCan attract lace bugs and spider mites; regular monitoring is needed.Bloom TimeBlooms in early to mid-spring, lasting several weeks.MaintenanceRequires moderate care, including occasional pruning for shape.Root GrowthShallow roots benefit from consistent moisture and mulch.SeasonalityMost are deciduous; some varieties are evergreen, providing year-round foliage.Watering NeedsPrefers moist, well-drained soil and regular watering during dry spells.Sunlight RequirementsThrives in partial shade; tolerates full sun in cooler areas.Soil CompatibilityPrefers acidic, well-drained soils rich in organic matter.Growth RateModerate growth rate, suitable for immediate and long-term landscaping.Hardiness ZoneBest in USDA Hardiness Zones 5–9, depending on the variety.Color & AestheticsStunning blooms in colors like pink, red, white, and purple.Wildlife AttractionAttracts butterflies and hummingbirds, enhancing garden life.Allergy ConcernsGenerally low in pollen production, suitable for allergy-sensitive areas.Edibility/ToxicityAll parts are toxic if ingested; caution is advised.Wind ToleranceSensitive to strong winds; best planted in sheltered locations.Invasive PotentialNon-invasive and easily controlled within garden boundaries.Mulching NeedsBenefits from mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.LifespanLong-lived perennials, often thriving for decades with proper care.FertilizationAnnual fertilization with acidic fertilizer is recommended.Companion PlantingPairs well with acid-loving plants like rhododendrons and ferns. See also Year-Round Homeowner Guide for Maintaining Plants, Lawns, and Pests in Seattle, WA Garden Plant Guide