Species azalea
white-pink flowers with pink filaments, yellow anthers, green leaves and lime-green leaves

azalea

Rhododendron 'Tri-Lights'

Azalea (Rhododendron 'Tri-Lights') is a hardy and vibrant evergreen shrub. It has a low, full, mounded habit with striking variegated foliage. Its delicate, bell-shaped, tri-colored flowers of pink, white and red bloom throughout the spring and summer. It is ideal for perennial gardens, foundation plantings, and borders. It thrives in acidic soils and partial sun, and does well with consistent moisture and weekly fertilization. It is low maintenance and easy to care for, and it adds color and texture to any landscape.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

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

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Pink with white overtones and a yellow blotch Flowers

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Azalea (Rhododendron 'Tri-Lights') should be given an average of 1” of water per week during the growing season (spring and summer). Water should be given slowly and deeply, so it is best to water for longer periods of time (several hours) rather than shorter bursts. The soil should be kept slightly moist to the touch and never allowed to dry out completely in between waterings. Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can promote fungal disease. During the winter season, water only every 4-6 weeks. Water slightly less than the weekly requirement during this time.

sunlight

Azalea (Rhododendron 'Tri-Lights') should be placed in an area of partial sun to full sun with 3 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid any areas that are overly shaded as this can result in inadequate flowering and increased disease susceptibility. Direct, early morning or late afternoon sun is preferable, while avoiding the harshest midday sun. During unusually hot days, provide the plant with some midday shade to avoid damage to foliage.

pruning

For Azalea (Rhododendron 'Tri-Lights'), it is best to prune in late winter when the plant is dormant. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches around the outside of the plant. Prune to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant as well. However, take care to not remove too much of the foliage, as this could affect the number of flowers a plant produces the following season. This species is typically a low maintenance, slow-growing shrub but may need light pruning each year.

Season

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

Rhododendron 'Tri-Lights' typically start flowering in April.

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.