Species azalea
red-orange flowers with orange filaments, yellow anthers, lime-green leaves and brown stems

azalea

Rhododendron 'Mary Poppins'

Azalea 'Mary Poppins' is a show-stopper with its bright pink flowers and glossy dark green foliage. It belongs to the Rhododendron family and prefers partial shade and acidic soil. It is highly resistant to pests and disease and blooms with an abundance of large, vibrant blooms in late spring or early summer that last until fall. The shrub can reach up to 4 feet tall and 4 feet wide. Its impressive display and moderate flowering make it an ideal choice for landscapes, cottage gardens, or rock gardens. Its captivating beauty is sure to bring joy to gardeners and visitors alike.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

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

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Orange-red Flowers

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

watering

Azaleas (Rhododendron 'Mary Poppins') should be watered often to keep their roots moist. Water the plant until the soil is moist and then allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. This variety of azalea likes to be kept evenly moist but the frequency of watering will depend on the conditions in your home. It's best to water when the top layer of soil begins to dry out. During periods of hot summer weather, it may be necessary to water about once per week. In cooler months, water about once every 2 weeks. It's also important to make sure the plant isn't sitting in water or excessively saturated soil for too long, as this can lead to root rot.

sunlight

Azalea (Rhododendron 'Mary Poppins') prefer to be in an area where they can receive direct sun for at least 4-6 hours a day during early morning or later afternoon, with some dappled shade the remainder of the day. Full sun may be too intense for some varieties and should be avoided during the hottest parts of the day. Avoid planting in full shade as it produces fewer flowers and less vigorous foliage.

pruning

Azaleas (Rhododendron 'Mary Poppins') should be pruned for shape and size in early to mid summer after flowering is complete. Pruning should be a light, selective trim, cutting no more than 1/4 of the plant’s total foliage in any given year. Dead or diseased branches should be pruned as soon as they are noticed to help keep the plant healthy. Prune the top of the plant to encourage side branching for a denser growth structure. If the plant is getting too large, old canes can be removed, but only if there is new growth from the lower part of the plant to replace it. This pruning will help keep your Azalea looking its best.

Season

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

Rhododendron 'Mary Poppins' 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.