Azalea indica Formosa
These impressive azaleas look great in masses or large specimen. They will bloom early to mid-season and tolerate our hot summers.
Characteristics:
Dimensions: 6-8’ x 4-6’
Growth Habit: Rounded habit
Foliage: Leathery, pointed foliage
Blooms: Prolific bloomer, Fuschia colored
Hardiness: Evergreen zones 8-10
Toxicity: Azaleas are toxic to pets.
Care Requirements:
Light: Full to part sun
Water: Keep your new plantings well-watered. Check every few days when there is no rain- don’t let new plants stay dry for long periods of time. Water azaleas at the base and try not to leave the leaves wet overnight.
Soil: Will thrive in soils that are slightly acidic and evenly moist. They will not, however, tolerate continuously wet feet. Make sure your new plantings are properly watered, or they will not establish well.
Fertilizer: When starting new plantings, use a liquid root stimulator for the first six weeks. This will help your plants prepare for the heat of summer and their first winter. After the first six weeks, you can feed your spring plantings with a granular Azalea/ Camellia fertilizer.
Pruning: Mature shrubs have a pleasantly rounded form. While it doesn’t take a lot of pruning to maintain the rounded shape, azaleas can benefit from some light yearly trimming after blooming. These shrubs can be maintained at about 4’ in height if desired.
Uses:
- Prized for mass plantings and hedges
- Great addition as a specimen texture piece in a sunny bed
