Azaleas: The Complete Guide to Hybrids, Natives, and Care

Azaleas offer a universe of choices. Here's the map.

Evergreen Hybrids (Warm Climates)

Southern Indica (Formosa): White, pink, red, purple, lavender. 'Duc de Rohan', 'G.G. Gerbing', 'George L. Tabor'.
Kurume: Cold-hardy, dwarf (4–6 ft), small waxy leaves. 'Coral Bells', 'Pink Ruffles', 'Snow'.
Satsuki: Late bloom (May–June), huge flowers (5"+), some 6 ft. 'Gumpo' series (compact).
Glenn Dale (USDA): 400+ cultivars, extended season, zone-hardy. 'Fashion' (salmon), 'H.H. Hume' (white).

Deciduous Natives (Fragrant & Fiery)

Florida azalea (R. austrinum): Yellow, orange, red, pink, bicolor. Early, fragrant.
Flame azalea: 10×15 ft, tree-like, spectacular. Japan has centuries-old specimens.

Culture Essentials

Partial shade (pine filtered ideal). Acid soil (pH 4.5–5.5). Pine straw/bark mulch. Plant high in 50% organic matter. Shallow roots—never cultivate deep. Water if dry 2 weeks. No lime. Fertilize rarely; iron/Epsom salts for yellowing. Prune immediately after bloom. Propagate: 8-in cuttings in sand, root in weeks.

Buy in bloom (spring) or containerized (fall/winter). Internet nurseries ship year-round. The right azalea in the right spot = decades of glory.