Elsie Lee Azalea

Elsie Lee Azalea (Rhododendron 'Elsie Lee')

Elsie Lee Azalea (Rhododendron 'Elsie Lee') is a cold-hardy evergreen azalea known for its striking lavender double blooms and reliable spring performance. This popular hybrid brings elegance and color to the landscape with large, ruffled flowers and a tidy, mounding habit. Its ability to withstand colder climates makes it a standout among deciduous and evergreen azaleas alike, offering both beauty and resilience for gardeners in northern zones.

Distinctive Features

Growing 3 to 4 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide, Elsie Lee forms a dense, rounded shrub with glossy, dark green foliage that remains attractive year-round. In mid to late spring, it produces abundant clusters of semi-double lavender-purple flowers with subtle reddish spotting on the upper petals. The blooms are large�up to 3 inches across�and create a vibrant display that pairs well with both pastel and bold-colored companions in the garden.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Best in partial shade; tolerates full sun in cooler climates with adequate moisture.
• Soil: Prefers acidic, well-drained soils enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; keep consistently moist but never soggy, especially during bloom time.
• Humidity: Adapts well to a range of conditions with proper air circulation.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; one of the more cold-tolerant evergreen azaleas.

Ideal Uses

• Foundation Plantings: Adds soft spring color and evergreen structure near homes and buildings.
• Mixed Borders: Complements other flowering shrubs and perennials with its lavender tones.
• Shade Gardens: Brightens understory plantings with ruffled, mid-spring blooms.
• Woodland Edges: Blends naturally into partially shaded native or informal gardens.
• Accent Plantings: A strong seasonal focal point thanks to its unique color and flower form.

Low Maintenance Care

Elsie Lee Azalea is easy to maintain in the right conditions. A little pruning after flowering and consistent watering during dry spells help keep the plant healthy and well-shaped year after year.

• Watering: Ensure soil stays evenly moist, especially during establishment and bloom season.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowers fade to maintain size and encourage fullness.
• Fertilizing: Use an acid-based fertilizer in early spring and again after bloom if desired.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to most common azalea pests when grown with good air flow.
• Winter Care: Mulch base in late fall to protect roots in colder zones; foliage may bronze slightly but rebounds in spring.

Why Choose Elsie Lee Azalea?

Elsie Lee Azalea (Rhododendron 'Elsie Lee') is a time-tested favorite that combines refined color, full blooms, and hardiness. Its lavender flowers and reliable performance make it an outstanding choice for landscapes across a wide range of zones.

• Beautiful Double Blooms: Lavender flowers with ruffled petals offer elegant spring color.
• Cold Hardy: Thrives where many other evergreen azaleas struggle.
• Compact and Tidy: Maintains a rounded shape with minimal maintenance.
• Evergreen Foliage: Provides structure and interest all year long.
• Versatile Landscape Use: Works well in both formal and informal garden settings.

For vivid color and dependable performance in a cold-hardy form, Elsie Lee Azalea is a standout addition to any landscape.