Hino Crimson Azalea

Hino Crimson Azalea (Rhododendron 'Hino Crimson')

Hino Crimson Azalea (Rhododendron 'Hino Crimson') is a compact evergreen azalea celebrated for its fiery crimson-red spring blooms and dense, mounded habit. As one of the most popular Kurume hybrids, it offers early-season color and excellent landscape structure, even in smaller spaces. Its tidy growth and reliable flowering make it a favorite for foundation plantings, borders, and massed displays.

Distinctive Features

'Hino Crimson' typically grows 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, forming a tight, rounded shrub with small, dark green leaves that hold through winter. In early spring, it bursts into bloom with vivid scarlet-red flowers that nearly cover the foliage. The consistent shape, vibrant color, and evergreen presence make it one of the most dependable and showy azaleas available for Zones 6 and up.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers partial shade; tolerates full sun in cooler regions with adequate moisture.
• Soil: Requires acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
• Humidity: Performs well in moderate to high humidity with good air circulation.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6�9; suitable for a wide range of climates across the eastern U.S.

Ideal Uses

• Foundation Plantings: Neat size and evergreen foliage are ideal for structured plantings near buildings.
• Mass Plantings: Effective when planted in groups for a carpet of spring color.
• Front-of-Border Accent: Low profile makes it a perfect choice at the edge of garden beds.
• Rock Gardens: Compact habit suits smaller, structured garden spaces.
• Containers: Performs well in pots or planters in lightly shaded areas.

Low Maintenance Care

Hino Crimson Azalea is exceptionally low maintenance and thrives with minimal attention. Its uniform habit rarely requires pruning, and proper soil preparation ensures healthy growth and vibrant bloom production.

• Watering: Water regularly during the first few growing seasons; established plants tolerate short dry spells.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to shape if necessary, but seldom needed.
• Fertilizing: Use a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring or after bloom.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Reliable and largely pest-free with proper siting and care.
• Winter Care: Mulch in fall to insulate roots and protect from freeze-thaw cycles.

Why Choose Hino Crimson Azalea?

Hino Crimson Azalea (Rhododendron 'Hino Crimson') delivers brilliant color and evergreen structure in a manageable, landscape-friendly package. Its early bloom time, tidy form, and minimal maintenance needs make it a top choice for gardeners seeking dependable spring color and year-round presence.

• Intense Crimson Blooms: Vivid red flowers blanket the shrub in early spring.
• Compact Evergreen Habit: Dense foliage and consistent form for structured spaces.
• Versatile in Design: Works in mass, borders, containers, and small gardens.
• Early Spring Color: Blooms earlier than many azaleas, adding seasonal contrast.
• Low Maintenance: Easy-care plant with excellent performance in suitable soil and light.

For bold spring impact and reliable evergreen form, Hino Crimson Azalea stands out as one of the most landscape-worthy choices among compact flowering shrubs.