Species azalea
pink-red flowers with peach filaments, yellow anthers and lime leaves

azalea

Rhododendron 'Anah Kruschke'

Azalea (Rhododendron 'Anah Kruschke') is an evergreen shrub, with gorgeous deep pink flowers, native to Japan and Korea. It is twice as wide as it is tall and enjoys a sunny location in acidic soil. Its deep green foliage and vibrant colors make it a gorgeous addition to any garden. It blooms in late spring or early summer and is drought tolerant once established. It can be pruned to maintain desired form or size, and it requires minimal care to keep its beauty for seasons to come. Anah Kruschke is perfect for any landscape and can be used to add texture and drama to any flower bed.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Reddish-purple with a deep purplish-red blotch Flowers

Sun:

part sun/part shade,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

watering

Azaleas should be watered deeply, but not too often. Generally, the soil should stay lightly moist; the frequency of watering will depend on the size of the plant and the type of soil it is planted in. For Rhododendron 'Anah Kruschke', it is best to wait until the top inch of soil becomes dry before watering, then water it until the water runs out of the pot's drainage holes. During the hot months of summer, it may require water every 5-7 days. In the cooler months of winter, it should rarely need watering.

sunlight

Azaleas prefer dappled, morning sunlight for about 4 - 6 hours each day. They should not be placed in direct, afternoon sun, which can scorch their leaves. A south or east facing window will provide the best results, as the sun will be indirect and bright, but not too strong. Alternatively, you could place the azalea in an area that has indirect light for part of the day and more direct light for the remainder, as long as it isn't too intense. Some azaleas also prefer some shade during very hot weather.

pruning

Azaleas should be pruned once a year in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth begins. You should start by removing dead, diseased, and damaged branches, as well as thinning out very dense growth or crossed branches. Stems that are older than 2 years should be cut back to a healthy young shoot to promote new growth. Be careful not to prune too extensively, as it can permanently damage the plant. Make sure to remove no more than 1-third of the overall branches at 1 time.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Rhododendron 'Anah Kruschke' typically starts flowering in late April or early May.

Hardiness Map

FAQ

Is Azalea an evergreen flower?

Yes, azaleas are an evergreen flower. These flowering shrubs are deciduous, meaning that they have leaves that hold on through winter and bloom annually with beautiful and colorful pink, white or purple flowers. Azaleas are grown primarily for their attractive blossoms and attractive green foliage, which are a great addition to any garden.

How do I propagate azalea?

Propagating azaleas through cuttings is the most common method of propagation and is done best in autumn or early spring. To do this, use sharp, sterile pruning shears to cut a 3- to 4-inch length of softwood from a healthy branch of the azalea cluster. Ensure there are at least 2 to 3 sets of leaves on each cutting, and remove any larger leaves at the base. Prepare a pot with a potting mix containing 1-2 parts of sterile compost, 1 part of perlites and some rooting hormone. Stick the cuttings 1-2 inches into the potting mix and mist with water. Keep the pot in indirect sunlight, and keep the soil moist at all times. Once the roots begin to form, the new azalea is ready to be planted.

Can azalea plant propagate by cutting?

Yes, azaleas can be propagated by cuttings. Taking softwood cuttings from the soft-stemmed varieties of azalea is the most common way of propagating them. This can be done by taking a cutting that is 4-6 inches in length, using a sharp-edged garden shear or knife. The cutting should be taken from the semi-ripened shoots, which are generally found at the tips of branches. Place the cuttings into soil and mist lightly to aid them in rooting. Keep the soil moist, and the cuttings should root and establish themselves in a few weeks.

Can Azaleas grow indoors?

Yes, Azaleas can grow indoors with the proper care and environment. To keep your Azalea plant indoors you'll need to make sure that it has a spot with plenty of indirect sunlight, like near a window, to help it produce brightly colored flowers. The soil should also be kept evenly moist and well-drained, and the room should be kept at a temperature around 65°-75°F. With a bit of effort, an Azalea plant can thrive indoors and give you a stunning display of flowers every year.

Can Azalea survive in cold climates?

Azaleas can tolerate cold climates, but extreme temperatures can damage the plant. When temperatures dip below -6 °C (21 °F), most varieties of azaleas cannot survive. Protecting azaleas from the cold using covers, such as burlap, is one way to guard against harsh temperatures. Additionally, mulching around the base of the azaleas, using materials such as pine bark can also help protect the plants from the colder weather. When it gets too cold, move the azaleas inside, where temperatures are more controlled.

Can all azalea varieties bloom at the same time of the year?

No, all azalea varieties cannot bloom at the same time of the year. Each variety blooms during a specific time, with some blooming in the late winter and early spring, while others might bloom in late spring or early summer. Some azaleas, like evergreen azaleas, also have multiple blooming times throughout the year. Depending on the variety and climate, the best time for planting azaleas is usually in the late winter or early spring.

Is it necessary to mulch around azalea?

Yes, it is necessary to mulch around an azalea. Mulching an azalea will provide it with important nutrients and an overall healthier environment for the shrub. Mulch also helps reduce weeds, retains moisture, and regulates soil temperature. To ensure success, use a well-draining, organic mulch such as cypress or cedar, and apply it in a 4-6 inch layer. Make sure to keep the mulch away from the azalea’s stems to prevent rot. In addition, remember to check your mulch throughout the growing season and reapply when necessary.

Is it normal for azaleas to drop their leaves in the fall?

Yes, it is normal for azaleas to drop their leaves in the fall season. In Autumn, azaleas will naturally go through their life cycle and shed their leaves as part of the plant’s dormancy process. This is a natural part of the plant’s life cycle and should not be a cause for alarm. Shedding leaves is a normal defense that a plant uses to preserve energy and nutrients during times of adverse weather.