Cannon's Double Azalea

Cannon's Double Azalea (Azalea x 'Cannon's Double')

Cannon's Double Azalea (Azalea x 'Cannon's Double') is a deciduous azalea prized for its lush, fully double flowers in vivid shades of pink to coral. Blooming heavily in mid to late spring, this hybrid combines ornamental beauty with a refined growth habit, offering strong seasonal impact in woodland borders, shrub groupings, or as a single garden focal point. Its showy blooms, fragrant presence, and seasonal leaf color contribute year-round interest to temperate gardens.

Distinctive Features

'Cannon's Double' typically reaches 4 to 6 feet tall and wide, with an upright to rounded form. The fully double flowers resemble camellias in structure and range in color from deep salmon-pink to soft coral. Blooms appear in dense trusses, often covering the entire shrub in peak season. In autumn, the green foliage takes on warm tones of red and orange before dropping, further extending its seasonal value.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Best in partial shade; tolerates full sun with adequate moisture.
• Soil: Prefers moist, acidic, well-drained soil with high organic content.
• Water: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
• Humidity: Performs well in moderate to humid climates with adequate airflow.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-8; reliably cold-hardy in much of the eastern and midwestern U.S.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point in Spring Gardens: Dramatic blooms create a stunning seasonal highlight.
• Woodland Borders: Complements shade-loving perennials and native understory species.
• Mixed Shrub Beds: Adds color and textural contrast to broadleaf evergreens and conifers.
• Foundation Plantings: Elegant structure fits well in front-yard landscape designs.
• Cut Flower Displays: Large, double blooms are ideal for spring floral arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

Cannon's Double Azalea is easy to grow with routine care and performs best in conditions that mimic its woodland origins. Pruning is rarely needed beyond basic shaping and the removal of dead wood.

• Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during bloom and establishment.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering if needed; avoid heavy pruning, which may reduce next year's blooms.
• Fertilizing: Apply fertilizer for acid-loving plants in early spring and again after bloom if desired.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to common azalea pests; provide good air circulation to prevent mildew.
• Winter Care: Hardy through Zone 5; mulch in fall to protect shallow roots from temperature swings.

Why Choose Cannon's Double Azalea?

Cannon's Double Azalea (Azalea x 'Cannon's Double') brings striking, multi-layered blooms and reliable performance to spring landscapes. Its compact form, cold hardiness, and eye-catching flowers make it a favored choice for gardens that emphasize color and structure.

• Fully Double Flowers: Camellia-like blooms in vivid coral-pink tones make a showstopping display.
• Seasonal Foliage Interest: Autumn leaf color adds warmth after bloom season ends.
• Moderate Size and Shape: Works well in a variety of residential and naturalistic settings.
• Cold Hardy and Adaptable: Suitable for a wide range of climates and soil types.
• Low Maintenance Beauty: High impact with minimal upkeep required.

For vibrant spring color and formal floral texture, Cannon's Double Azalea is a standout option that brings elegance and charm to shaded or semi-shaded gardens.