Tradition Azalea

Tradition Azalea (Rhododendron 'Tradition')

Tradition Azalea is a reliable evergreen azalea known for its vibrant rose-red spring flowers that completely blanket the shrub. Its dense, rounded habit and glossy green foliage provide lasting structure and color for borders, foundations, and woodland gardens.

Distinctive Features

Large, vivid rose-red blooms create a bold spring display, while the uniform evergreen form maintains a tidy appearance year round. Bred for hardiness and consistent flowering, it performs well across a wide range of garden settings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial sun to partial shade, with afternoon shade preferred in hotter climates.
• Soil: Moist, acidic, well drained soil rich in organic matter.
• Water: Keep evenly moist, especially during establishment and flowering.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9.
• Mature Size: 3 to 5 ft tall and 3 to 5 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Showy rose-red blooms create a striking centerpiece in spring landscapes.
• Foundation Plantings: Adds evergreen texture and seasonal color near entries or patios.
• Mixed Borders: Blends well with evergreens, ferns, and spring perennials.
• Woodland Gardens: Thrives under filtered light and enriches natural settings.
• Mass Plantings: Creates sweeping displays of color when grouped together.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and consistently to maintain even soil moisture; avoid waterlogged roots.
• Pruning: Prune immediately after flowering to shape and encourage dense growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, acid-forming fertilizer after bloom at label rates.
• Mulching: Use pine bark or needles to maintain soil moisture and acidity.
• Notes: Protect from strong afternoon sun and drying winds for best bloom and foliage quality.

Why Choose Tradition Azalea?

• Classic Color: Bright rose-red flowers provide timeless garden appeal.
• Evergreen Structure: Dense foliage ensures lasting form and texture.
• Reliable Performance: Consistent flowering and steady growth year after year.
• Versatile Design Use: Effective in foundations, borders, and naturalized groupings.
• Low Maintenance: Straightforward to grow with proper soil and moisture conditions.

Plant in morning sun with afternoon shade, maintain evenly moist acidic soil, and prune lightly after flowering to promote next season's buds.