Azalea Bush Growing Guide: How To ID 30 Types of Azaleas, Care, Pruning

Image Credit: co16⁴⁷

What Is the Azalea Plant?

The Azalea Bush is pretty hard to miss. How can you when it has some of the most strikingly tinted flowers you have ever seen?

So, what is the Azalea Plant exactly?

Known far and wide as a flowering bush, the azalea is actually a Rhododendron, with most species being evergreen, and is without a doubt planted for its stunning flowers.⁸ It is one of the top choices for landscaping thanks to how gorgeous it looks, especially in springtime when it’s in full bloom.

But it can also be whatever you want it to be: a foundation plant, hedge, privacy screen, or just a typical landscaping plant in your lawn or yard. You can do whatever you want with it, even plant it indoors in a container

This explains why homeowners can’t get enough of the Azalea Plant. Look no further if you are in search of some greenery that will serve your home decor and landscaping needs and won’t give you a hard time while at it.

How Big Does an Azalea Bush Get?

One of the best features of the Azalea Bush is its attractive appearance, making it a favorite choice for an ornamental plant.

But as a homeowner, you obviously have plans about the space that you want your ornamental plant to fill, so it’s important to know what to expect about the size of the plant you will be growing.

(Image: Nguyen TP Hai²²)

So, how big does an Azalea Bush get?

The growth rate and the size of the plant usually have a lot more to do with the particular species and how well you take care of it.

However, out of the many varieties available, you will more than likely come across an Azalea Bush that measures anything between 3-10 feet, although there are dwarf species that are only able to reach about 1-2 feet high.⁴ Therefore, you will have to research deeper in order to find an Azalea Bush that grows to the perfect height that you want.

Take into consideration what you need from the plant and the amount of space you would like it to fill. For instance, if you want to grow a privacy screen, go for the species that can grow taller.

But what about the plant’s growth rate? How big do azaleas get?

The azalea tends to grow at a moderate-fast speed, especially when young, and it is quite common to register 12 inches of growth in a single year. However, later on, as the plant matures, the growth spurt slows down a bit as it becomes more developed and established.

How To Identify Azalea Bush (Pictures of Azaleas)

There is a reason why the azalea is one of the most highly sought-after ornamental plant types. This flowering plant has unique features that will effortlessly grab your attention and will help you recognize it as such when looking at pictures of azaleas or when you are in a nursery.

Below are some more descriptions of azalea leaves, flowers, and seeds to help you how to identify Azalea Bush and become more familiar with them.

Azalea Bush Leaves

The flowers are not their only breathtaking feature; Azalea Bush leaves are equally stunning. The foliage grows lush, with each leaf having a simple pattern and an elliptical shape.

Leaves from evergreen azaleas are thin, a little hairy, and take a more purple shade come winter. On the other hand, deciduous azalea leaves are more elongated, with some taking on stunning colors in the fall.

Azalea Bush Flower

Spring will be your favorite time of the year as a homeowner because you can finally see the vibrant, gorgeous petals that everybody raves about when talking about the azalea.

There is no distinct flower color with this plant because they come in hundreds of shades and hybridization has only made the colors even more unique.¹¹ The outstanding feature of an Azalea Bush flower, however, is that it has a funnel or trumpet shape, and is smaller than that of a rhododendron.

Azalea Bush Seeds

Although Azalea Bush seeds are not commonly used during the plant’s propagation, you can always spot them growing on the plant. They are sheltered in light brown seed pods with the enclosure opening up to reveal numerous tiny seeds inside.

Azalea Flower Varieties (Azalea Bush Colors)

If you are on the lookout for plants that attract hummingbirds or stunning bushes that are an absolute favorite of different types of bees, then your best bet is the Azalea Bush.

Imagine there being thousands of hybrid varieties; what that tells you is that there are so many Azaleas Bush colors all across the planet coming in distinct hues and unique types of flowers. Here are just a few varieties that you may like, grouped according to the different flower shades.

White Azalea Bush

Are you a huge fan of types of white flowers and want to have a whole garden of them? Then the stunning white Azalea Bush varieties will grow gorgeous white petals for you.

Red Azalea Bush

Red is one color that is always going to stand out from the rest, and if you are on the lookout for a plant with vivid fiery flowers, you would love to learn about the following red Azalea Bush varieties.

7. Autumn Bonfire

Measuring 3 feet high, the Autumn Bonfire is exactly what it says it is with its vibrant fire-colored flowers. It also has the tendency to grow rather quickly, lighting up your garden in no time after planting.

9. Red Ruffles

You see the term ruffles, and you already know that this plant is going to grow vibrant ruffled petals that are a sight for sore eyes. This type of flower grows full, which is perfect for mass planting.

Pink Azalea Bush

If you just can’t get enough of pink flowers, then these pink Azalea Bush varieties will be some of your top options.

11. George Taber

How about some white and pink flowers? This southern breed of evergreen azalea is one of the most stunning that you will ever come across since it has some white and orchid-colored flowers that will definitely put on a show when spring comes.

13. Canzonetta

Apart from the vivid bright pink colors on the flowers, one amazing thing about the Canzonetta is that it is perfect for planting as a ground cover because it tends to grow low on the ground.⁵

Orange Azalea Bush

Now onto another flower color that will liven up your space: the orange Azalea Bush types.

17. Golden Lights

One of the most cold-hardy plants that you will ever come across is this, and it helps that it also has the looks to match. The flowers are orange and grow in clusters, with the bush measuring 3-6 feet high.

18. Admiral Franklin Buchanan Azalea

Showy and ruffled are the correct terms that would describe this Azalea Bush with a very unique name. The flowers have a deep orange shade, and the petals are delicate and curved at the edges.

Purple Azalea Bush

People can’t seem to get enough of regal purple flowers because they take a nice bluish shade and rejuvenate any space. Here are some top purple Azalea bush picks for you.

22. Autumn Majesty

There is a lot going on with the flower from this plant, and it would be perfect if you want to add some character to your garden. The petals are wavy and have red freckles on them.

24. Double Shot Grape

This is a plant that is ideal if you are looking for deep purple flowers with freckles on them; certainly a sight to behold.

Yellow Azalea Bush

Yellow is another stunning shade that will be perfect for your landscaping needs and the following is a sneak peek into some of the most stunning yellow Azalea Bush options.

27. Azalea Narcissiflorum

This plant gets its name from the fact that it has yellow flowers that look sort of like yellow daffodils.

29. Dodd Confederate

Another plant that isn’t shy to show off its bright yellow flowers is the Dodd Confederate, and an outstanding feature is the fact that it is deciduous.

Azalea Bush vs Rhododendron Bush

Are you familiar with the Rhododendron plant? Then, it must be surprising to you that the Azalea Bush belongs to the Rhododendron genus, making them sort of related.

But that can get confusing, more so when you learn that the two are distinct plants.

For starters, the azalea is a plant that comes from the Rhododendron genus, which is basically a group of various species. Hence, all azaleas are rhododendrons.

Now, what is the difference when you ask about the Azalea Bush vs Rhododendron Bush? For one, all rhododendrons are evergreen, but azaleas can either be evergreen or deciduous based on where exactly they live.

Secondly, when you take a look at a Rhododendron Bush, you will notice that it is huge and can sometimes measure 20 feet wide.

Rhododendron Bushes are also known to have more glossy, deep green leaves that are practically leathery to the touch and, in most cases, are more tolerant of chilly conditions.⁹ The flowers are also distinct, taking a bell shape with 10 protruding stamens.

In comparison, azaleas tend to grow smaller, given that most varieties reach just about 3 feet high. When it comes to the leaves, they are pointed and slimmer in shape, while the flowers are usually more spread out and funnel-like, mostly with less than 5 stamens.

Don’t pay attention to the overlapping names; with a keen eye, you can easily spot the difference between these two individual types of plants.

Are Azaleas Perennials or Annuals?

You already know that you are signing up for a breathtaking plant that grows vividly-colored flowers that will light up your home, but there is one more thing: what should you really expect when it comes to the growing pattern of the azalea? Are azaleas perennials or annuals plants?

First of all, what is the difference between annuals and perennials?

For the first group, the plants tend to germinate and grow the flowers and seeds normally, but then die all in the same year.

But the case is pretty different for perennials because they live way longer than that. Yes, they may die during the coldest months, but they are able to grow back again when the temperatures are more favorable.

Luckily for you, azaleas fall into this group.

The azalea is a perennial plant indeed, but there are a few things to take note of.²¹ Like the fact that as opposed to other typical perennials, there are some Azalea Bushes that don’t wither; as their wood stems and heavy foliage stay intact all through the year even in punishing winters.

There’s also one characteristic that makes them more perennials than annuals: the fact that they are able to flower every single year.

How To Plant an Azalea Bush

Picking the perfect type of azalea according to your needs and preference out of the countless varieties is one thing; knowing how to go about planting it is another. What is the best way to make sure that you have the healthiest plants with the most remarkable vibrant flower colors?

Below, you will find exactly how to plant an Azalea Bush through different propagation methods.

Growing an Azalea Bush From a Seed

Even though planting seeds has more often than not proven to be tasking and time-consuming, it is not impossible to start growing an Azalea Bush from a seed. It’s just that you will need more skills and patience, unlike when planting using other methods.

The key is to start from a container using sand that is specially created for potting. Fill the container half full with the moistened medium, but make sure that it is not soaked.

Next, spread out the seeds and mist them again with some fertilizer, then finally cover the container with a plastic bag to help retain the humidity.

Lastly, place a grow light on top and wait for germination.

Growing an Azalea Bush From a Cutting

Unlike starting from seeds, growing an Azalea Bush from a cutting is simpler making it perfect for first-timers who don’t exactly possess a green thumb.¹³ One more advantage of vegetative planting is the fact that you will be able to get actual clones of the parent plant.

The perfect time to take cuttings is soon after the growth in spring, but make sure that the plant you choose is healthy and strong. To make them grow, start by dipping the ends in rooting hormones and placing a third of it in the medium in the container.

The next step is to water the cuttings, then you can cover them to help retain the level of moisture. The more you keep watering, the more you will notice changes in growth.

Growing an Azalea Bush From a Seedling

Cuttings are already easy to plant, but seedlings are way more effortless. You can go for this if it is your very first time planting because you cannot possibly mess this up, not when there are very simple steps that you can follow for growing an Azalea Bush from a seedling.

First, dig a hole that is deep for the root ball and twice the size of it in diameter.

(Image: ACES | Devontae Lindsey⁴⁵)

Take the seedling and place it in the hole, but while at it, make sure that the top is at the same level as the soil on each side; not too deep because it may lead to root rot.³

Lastly, backfill the hole, tap the soil, and water deeply. Then, come back for more watering until the plant has established itself.

Planting Tips for Azalea Bush

Now that you already know how to plant one, you need a few tricks up your sleeve to make sure that your Azalea Bush grows with the most luscious and brightest flowers.

Below are some of planting tips for Azalea Bush you should take note of.

Where To Plant Azaleas

The Azalea Bush can grow as a privacy screen, hedge around your house, foundation planting, or simply for ornamental value on your property. You can also plant it along sloping land as a method of soil control or even in a container for your landscaping or home decor.

So, where to plant azaleas really depends on what you need it for. Just make sure that the plant will receive everything that it needs regardless of the location.

How Far Apart To Plant Azalea Bush

Since the azalea grows into a lush bush, you want to make sure that there is enough room in between each one. Maybe leaving a 2-6 feet distance between each plant is something that you should consider when it comes to how far apart to plant Azalea Bush.

How Long It Takes To Grow Azalea Bush

The total duration of growth for the Azalea Bush, or any other landscaping plant for that matter, depends on the method of propagation you used. You will have to wait a little longer if you start with a seed, but not that long for seedlings or cuttings.

Seedlings take the shortest time to reach maturity, maybe 3-4 years; but for seeds, you may end up waiting for more than 5 years until the plant is fully developed. How long it takes to grow Azalea Bush, in general, also depends on the care you give it.

When To Plant Azalea Bush for the Best Yield

If you have been gardening or farming for a while now, you’d probably know that timing plays a huge role in determining how well the plant is going to grow.

When to plant Azalea Bush for the best yield then?

The best time for planting the azalea, probably any other landscaping tree or flowering plant, too, is around spring when the air and temperature are more accommodating.¹⁶

Best Growing Conditions for Azalea Bush

Again, for the best results when planting an Azalea Bush, you want to check that the plant’s needs are met. Here are some things to take note of for the best growing conditions for Azalea Bush.

Watering Needs for Azalea Bush Plants

It goes without saying that the Azalea Bush needs water to grow.

While the rain in spring after planting could be enough, the watering needs for Azalea Bush plants when the rain stops would be more, and you can water them a few times a week, or at least each time the soil dries up, because the last thing you want is complications due to overwatering.

How Much Sunlight Does Azalea Bush Need Each Day?

One interesting thing about the azalea is how it hates too much sun. So how much sunlight does Azalea Bush need each day?

(Image: angelsharum⁴⁶)

Sunlight is important for it to grow, but too much could cause wilting, and that is why they will need some extra shade during sweltering summers.

Just make sure that there are at least 6 hours of indirect sunlight access every day, although you can complement that with an indoor grow light for container plants.

What Is the Best Temperature for an Azalea Bush?

Different azalea types have unique hardiness levels, and that is why you want to be very careful.

If you are keen enough, you could search for the particular cultivar and its temperature needs because extreme cold could cause delayed growth, while excessive heat could lead to burns.⁷

Azalea Bush Growing Zone: Growing Zones for Azalea Bush (Where To Grow Azalea Bush for the Best Yield)

Planting zones are crucial and are actually supposed to be the first thing you learn about your plant before deciding to grow it. Otherwise, you will only end up with a plant that is struggling to survive.

The best Azalea Bush growing zone is where there is access to full or partial sunlight, water access, moderate levels of humidity, and slightly acidic soils.

When it comes to the hardiness zones or growing zones for Azalea Bush (where to grow), the azalea varies based on the cultivar that you are growing. In general, the range is between USDA Zones 3-9, with, of course, the lower temperatures reserved for the more cold hardy species growing in the northern parts of the US.²⁰

Azalea Care: How To Care for Azaleas (Azalea Bush Care)

Here are a few Azalea care tips that any Azalea Plant parent should know to maintain a healthy and happy plant.

How To Trim an Azalea Bush

Worried that you will have issues with plant pruning and general maintenance? When it comes to how to care for azaleas and how to trim an Azalea Bush, you will be glad to know that azalea is pretty easygoing.

You don’t really have to regularly trim the bush; maybe when you want to shape it, just snip off some stems to enhance its looks or improve its growth.

Caring for Azalea Bush in Winter (Looking After Azalea Bush in Winter)

Farmers and plant owners often freak out when winter approaches, worried sick about what will become of their plants when the temperatures dip below normal.

If you want to make sure that your Azalea Bush in Winter is doing well during the season, a process known as overwintering, there are two things to do.¹⁷

One, check that the plant is deeply watered, and number two, create a very heavy organic mulch layer; maybe an inch or two around the plant. Doing this is a foolproof method for azalea Bush Care to lock in moisture and regulate the temperature levels.

What Are the Best Companion Plants for Growing Azalea Bush?

The best part about spring is when there are various plants growing together and complementing each other’s flower colors.

(Image: cultivar413³¹)

That is exactly what you want with your azalea; yes, it is a stunning plant, but it becomes even better when there are other equally gorgeous plants growing around it. Here are some common top companion plants for growing Azalea Bush.

Mountain Laurel

As one of the members of the Heath family, which the azalea also belongs to, the Mountain Laurel is a perfect fit for companion planting and its lush shiny leaves blend in so well.

Hydrangeas

Who doesn’t love the vivid colors and the wonderful fragrance of the Hydrangea? It grows in sort of the same conditions as the azalea, and the colors will definitely contrast nicely.

Blueberries

Looking for a plant that is very attractive to pollinators like bees and hummingbirds? You may want to consider the Blueberry bush.

Hostas

If you have ever come across Hostas, you will agree that adding them to your garden will add a touch of elegance and fullness.

Holly

One thing about the Holly is that it will always command attention. You will love the fact that the dark, glossy green and red berries will contrast nicely with the colors of the azalea.¹

Common Pests of the Azalea Bush

Unfortunately, the azalea, just like the Rhododendron, is not immune to pests, and you should be very worried about them if you are a plant parent. These pests could be the end of your plant, and that is why you should know what are the common pests of the Azalea Bush and how to spot them.

• Lace bug: At the very top of the list is the azalea lace bug that attacks as adults and in nymph form. You will notice the dark marks on the wings of adults and spines on the backs of nymphs.
• Spider mites: Another very popular pest of the azalea is the spider mite, and the problem with this one is that it is easy to miss given that the pests are hardly detectable by the naked eye.
• Red-headed caterpillar: This moth larva is also deadly, but at least it is easy to spot with its red head and yellow and black stripes. This one is rather aggressive and can easily cause defoliation of your azalea.
• Rhododendron borer: Although this pest is more of a fan of the rhododendrons, it also loves feeding on the Azalea Bush. It has got a dark top and light yellow body and chews into the plant’s bark, leaving behind tunnels.

Natural Pest Control for Azalea Bush

Now that you know what your plant is susceptible to, it is time to learn how to control these pests using natural pest control for Azalea Bush.

When it comes to the tiny insects spreading across the leaves and other parts, one way to go is to drive them away using a strong jet of water from a hose. This will wash them off and leave the parts ready for other natural treatment options like the application of insecticidal soap.¹⁸

This should be done in the spring and maybe repeated two weeks later.

If you are dealing with relatively small attacks like larvae infections, you could remove the affected parts and dispose of them to avoid spreading.

And lastly, if you want to focus more on preventing diseases, you want to maintain a high level of hygiene in your garden because some pests hide inside the soil.

Common Diseases of the Azalea Bush

Your precious Azalea Plant could also be in danger of contracting diseases, and that is why you should always be on the lookout for even the tiniest indication. Some of these diseases prove to be fatal, and that would be the end of your plant’s life, which is the last thing you want.

• Petal blight: You love your flowers so much, maybe the only reason why you planted your azaleas in the first place, but what would you do if the petals got infected with this virus? It manifests as nasty pale or rust-colored spots on the petals and gets bigger by the day, making the flowers drop early.²
• Azalea gall: This is usually determined to destroy the leaves on your bush. It attacks in spring and leaves the foliage all brown and curled up.
• Rust: Another fungal disease that you definitely want to watch out for is rust, which leaves reddish spores on the leaves and bark. It spreads rather quickly and could easily kill off the azalea.
• Powdery mildew: Any seasoned plant parent will tell you just how devastating the powdery mildew really is. It causes white powder-like growth on the plant’s leaves and eventually leads to defoliation.
• Twig blight: Just from the name, you can tell that this disease usually attacks the stems and bark. You can easily tell when there is an infection when you detect discolorations, and the effects are usually wilting and the loss of leaves.

How To Stop Azalea Bush Disease

First things first, preventing these diseases should be the number one priority. The best method on how to stop Azalea Bush disease starts with taking better care of your Azalea Bush because a well-watered and fed plant growing in the best conditions gives diseases no room to attack because the plant will be healthy and strong.

The only problem is when you are dealing with fungal infections that spread really fast across other plants. Immediately after you spot any sign of infection, the first thing to do is to sever the affected part and destroy it immediately in a fire.

(Image: Ishikawa Ken³⁶)

You should watch out for discolored leaves, spores on the plant parts, and any other feature that is out of the ordinary. There are cases where the infection is too severe, and that would call for the removal and disposal of the entire bush.

Remember that fungi transfer really quickly, especially through the wind and water; that is why you should deal with azalea diseases as soon as possible.¹² You should also consider applying a fungicide, especially early on in spring when there is new growth.

Azalea Bush Facts You Should Know

There is so much to learn if you are planning to become an Azalea Bush parent. Here is a compilation of some Azalea Bush facts that you should really know.

• Azalea is native to Asia, although there are some deciduous varieties that come from the northern parts of America.
• The azalea belongs to the Rhododendron family of plants, hence the common features like dark green glossy leaves and vibrant colors in the flowers.¹⁵
• There are thousands of azaleas being grown in various parts of the world all because of hybridization and experimentation to find various plant subspecies. There exist more than 800 types and over 10,000 different versions.
• More often than not, the plant is grown exclusively for its shades of flowers that are either flat or funnel in shape, growing singly or in doubles.
• Homeowners love how the blooms of the azalea can last several weeks.
• Azalea bush can either be evergreen or deciduous, and it all depends on where it is growing.
• Did you know that azaleas are toxic and are dangerous to humans and pets? They contain the grayanotoxin chemical that leads to side effects like nausea, issues with breathing, vomiting, and reduced heart rate.

The feeling of sitting outside your house or staring at your garden and admiring the stunning flowers is unmatched. You feel so accomplished and get to enjoy therapeutic views right from your house.

If this looks like something you would be interested in, you want to pay more attention to the Azalea Plant. This bush will never disappoint if you are looking for a plant with some of the most breathtaking petal colors.

Red, pink, yellow, orange, purple, and so much more are in store for you when it comes to choosing the perfect colors for your landscaping or decor. It also helps a lot to learn that the plant is rather easy to grow and care for. So, you don’t have to have a green thumb or worry that you are going to kill this one.

The Azalea Bush is perfect for beginners and even better when you have more experience with planting other plants and trees, and the icing on the cake is the hundreds of vibrant colors to choose from.

Frequently Asked Questions About Azalea Bush