Fashion Azalea

Fashion Azalea (Rhododendron x 'Fashion')

Fashion Azalea is a dense evergreen shrub valued for its profusion of coral-pink blooms that appear in mid to late spring. Its fine-textured, glossy green foliage forms a tidy rounded habit, making it a versatile choice for foundations, borders, and mass plantings where dependable color and structure are desired.

Distinctive Features

This Girard hybrid azalea is admired for its rich salmon to coral-pink flowers that contrast beautifully against dark evergreen leaves. Fashion Azalea is also known for its cold hardiness and reliable performance, providing consistent spring color and year-round foliage interest.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial sun to partial shade, with protection from harsh afternoon light.
• Soil: Moist, acidic, well drained soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy, particularly during flowering and dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9.
• Mature Size: 3 to 4 ft tall and 3 to 4 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Showcases vibrant coral-pink blooms that enliven spring landscapes.
• Foundation Plantings: Provides color and structure along homes and patios.
• Mixed Borders: Complements shade perennials and woodland shrubs.
• Mass Plantings: Creates a unified sweep of color in larger landscape beds.
• Woodland Edges: Adds visual warmth and texture beneath trees or in dappled light.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during heat.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to shape and remove spent blooms.
• Fertilizing: Use a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of pine bark or needles to retain moisture and acidity.
• Notes: Avoid planting in heavy clay or alkaline soils to prevent chlorosis.

Why Choose Fashion Azalea?

• Reliable Spring Blooms: Produces a profusion of bright coral-pink flowers each season.
• Compact Evergreen Form: Maintains year-round appeal and fits well in limited spaces.
• Cold Hardy: Tolerates lower temperatures than many azaleas in its class.
• Low Maintenance: Simple care requirements suit both home and professional landscapes.
• Versatile Design Value: Works equally well as a specimen, hedge, or foundation accent.

For best results, plant Fashion Azalea in morning sun with afternoon shade and maintain evenly moist, acidic soil.