Rhododendron 'Darkie' typically starts flowering in April.
azalea
Rhododendron 'Darkie'
Azalea 'Darkie' is an evergreen shrub that's ideal for adding a splatter of deep, magenta blooms to brighten up any garden! This hardy plant thrives best in a brightly lit spot with plenty of water and a slightly acidic soil. Its fully double, saucer-shaped, intense dark pink flowers appear in mid-spring and can repeat flower later in the season. Its bushy rounded habit makes it a great addition to any bedding or foundation planting. The glossy green foliage is the perfect backdrop for it's bright spring blooms. Azalea 'Darkie' is an excellent way to add a splash of colour to any garden.
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
7 - 9
Flowers:
Orange-red Flowers
Sun:
part sun/part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Poisonous To Pets:
Yes
watering
Azaleas need plenty of water and should be watered approximately 3-4 times a week in the warmer months, or when the soil appears to be dry. However, the frequency should be reduced to once or twice a week during cooler weather. When watering, make sure to give the soil an even and generous soaking, as this will ensure that the roots get enough water. When in doubt, use your finger to check the soil several inches down to make sure the root area is getting adequately moist.
sunlight
Azaleas, in general, thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. At least 4 to 6 hours of morning sun is recommended, while all-day shade is preferred in the hottest locations. If planting in partial shade, try to avoid very hot, mid-day sun exposure. Also, avoid planting in places where there is a lot of reflected heat, such as along south-facing brick walls. Additionally, azaleas need protection from strong winds, and some varieties may be more sensitive and need more protection than others. In general, for the Rhododendron 'Darkie' cultivar, 5 to 6 hours of morning sun per day is best.
pruning
Azalea (Rhododendron 'Darkie') should be pruned in late winter or early spring, shortly before new growth appears. The recommended amount of pruning is to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches and then cut back the remaining shoots by up to a third of their length. This should be done carefully so that the plant’s natural shape is preserved. Removing too much can result in fewer, less colorful blooms. If you prune too much and the shape of the plant becomes distorted, you can correct it the following year by selective pruning.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
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.
