The Tradition Azalea is a mid-sized evergreen shrub that typically grows 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, forming a dense, rounded shape ideal for layered beds or borders. What sets it apart is its profuse blooming habit in May, when it becomes covered in rosy pink, funnel-shaped flowers with faint darker spotting that adds dimension.

This cultivar is bred for cold-hardiness, making it an excellent choice for gardeners throughout USDA Zones 5 to 8, including all of New Jersey. Its lustrous dark green leaves remain attractive all year, providing structure and screening even after flowering has passed.

Tradition Azalea is also valued for its uniform growth habit and its ability to thrive in partial shade, especially beneath high tree canopies or along east- and north-facing exposures. Its dependable flowering and foliage retention make it a standout choice for long-term landscape planning.

With its balanced form and bold spring display, Tradition Azalea is a go-to shrub for naturalistic and structured plantings alike.

Woodland Borders: This azalea excels in dappled shade, where it mimics its native woodland habitat. Use it in naturalized borders under tall trees where the filtered light enhances its flowering performance. Companion plants like ferns, tiarella, and hellebores extend interest into other seasons.

Foundation Plantings: Tradition’s tidy shape and evergreen leaves make it ideal for foundation beds, where it offers four-season structure. Place it near entryways or windows for spring flower visibility and year-round greenery.

Mixed Shrub Borders: Incorporate Tradition into mixed borders alongside other shade-tolerant shrubs such as Pieris, Leucothoe, or Hydrangea. Its pink blooms contrast well with both white and purple-flowering neighbors, adding variety to the seasonal display.

Mass Planting or Screening: When planted in groups, Tradition can form a low evergreen hedge or seasonal flowering screen. Space plants 4 to 5 feet apart for natural overlap without crowding.

Focal Point in Shade Gardens: Use a single, well-positioned Tradition Azalea as a focal point in shaded gardens, especially where its spring bloom can be viewed up close. Pair it with dark mulch or stone for added contrast against its pink flowers and green foliage.

Azaleas are low-maintenance when planted in the right conditions, and Tradition is no exception.

Planting: Select a site with partial shade, ideally sheltered from harsh afternoon sun and strong winds. Soil should be well-drained, acidic, and rich in organic matter. Raised beds or mounded planting can help improve drainage if needed.

Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy, especially during establishment and in dry periods. A 2–3 inch layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed. If shaping is desired, prune immediately after flowering, as next year’s flower buds begin forming in summer. Remove any dead or damaged branches to maintain plant health.

Fertilizing: Use an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, which promote leaf growth at the expense of blooms.

Spacing: Allow for 4 to 6 feet of spacing in group plantings. This provides enough room for air circulation and reduces disease risk.

Pests & Disease: Tradition is relatively resistant to major issues when grown in proper conditions. Watch for lace bugs in sunny sites or leaf spot in overly wet soils. Proper siting and maintenance help avoid most problems.