Gibraltar Azalea

Gibraltar Azalea (Rhododendron 'Gibraltar')

Gibraltar Azalea (Rhododendron 'Gibraltar') is a deciduous azalea celebrated for its bold, fiery orange blooms and dramatic garden presence. This Exbury hybrid produces large, ruffled flowers in dense clusters during mid to late spring, lighting up the landscape with vivid color. Its upright habit and excellent fall foliage make it a strong choice for mixed borders, woodland gardens, or as a striking seasonal focal point.

Distinctive Features

'Gibraltar' typically reaches 4 to 6 feet tall and wide, forming an upright, mounding shrub. The blooms are a deep orange with frilled petals and red undertones, appearing in trusses of up to a dozen flowers. Flowering begins in mid-spring and is followed by clean green foliage that turns red and bronze in the fall. This variety is known for its intense color, reliable bloom, and strong visual impact throughout the growing season.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Best in part shade; tolerates full sun with adequate moisture.
• Soil: Moist, acidic, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; maintain consistent moisture during dry periods.
• Humidity: Performs well in moderate to humid climates with good air circulation.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; cold-hardy and adaptable to a variety of climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point in Spring Borders: Vivid orange blooms create a dramatic seasonal statement.
• Woodland Gardens: Blends well with other shade-loving shrubs and perennials.
• Mixed Shrub Borders: Adds contrast to evergreen and flowering plants alike.
• Foundation Plantings: Works well in larger planting areas with partial shade.
• Cut Flower Use: Striking blooms are ideal for indoor spring arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

Gibraltar Azalea is relatively easy to grow and responds well to basic care. With proper soil and moisture, it will deliver brilliant spring color with minimal effort.

• Watering: Maintain even moisture, especially during bloom season and establishment.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to shape and remove any dead or damaged wood.
• Fertilizing: Feed with a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally pest-free; good airflow helps prevent leaf spot and mildew.
• Winter Care: Hardy in Zones 5�8; mulch in fall to insulate roots in colder climates.

Why Choose Gibraltar Azalea?

Gibraltar Azalea (Rhododendron 'Gibraltar') stands out for its intense orange blooms and dependable garden performance. Whether used alone or in combination with other spring-flowering shrubs, it brings unmistakable energy and beauty to the spring garden.

• Fiery Orange Blooms: Large, ruffled flowers provide bold mid-spring color.
• Seasonal Foliage Interest: Green leaves turn striking red-bronze in fall.
• Upright Growth Habit: Adds height and structure to foundation beds and borders.
• Cold Hardy and Adaptable: Performs well in a range of soil and climate conditions.
• Low Maintenance Beauty: High impact with minimal care required.

For dramatic spring color and excellent landscape structure, Gibraltar Azalea offers a bold, time-tested solution that continues to impress in gardens year after year.