Nancy of Robinhill Azalea

Nancy of Robinhill Azalea (Rhododendron 'Nancy of Robinhill')

Nancy of Robinhill Azalea (Rhododendron 'Nancy of Robinhill') is a compact evergreen azalea from the Robin Hill hybrid series, known for its graceful form and soft, blush-pink blooms. Selected by Robert Ticknor for its cold hardiness and refined flower shape, this cultivar brings subtle elegance to shaded garden spaces. Its dependable bloom time and uniform habit make it a favorite for foundation plantings, borders, and container use.

Distinctive Features

'Nancy of Robinhill' typically grows 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, forming a rounded mound with dense branching. The flowers are soft pastel pink with a hint of salmon, often deepening slightly at the center, and appear in mid-spring with occasional light rebloom in fall. Each bloom has a semi-double to hose-in-hose form, adding a delicate texture to its floral display. Evergreen foliage is small, dark green, and slightly glossy, holding its color well through winter.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers part shade; morning sun with afternoon protection yields best bloom.
• Soil: Acidic, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter supports optimal growth.
• Water: Moderate; requires regular moisture, particularly in warmer months.
• Humidity: Performs well in moderate humidity with good airflow.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6�8; cold hardy and heat tolerant within its range.

Ideal Uses

• Foundation Plantings: Tidy form and soft color complement architectural lines.
• Shaded Borders: Provides gentle color beneath trees and larger shrubs.
• Woodland Gardens: A natural fit for filtered light conditions and organic soils.
• Containers: Excellent for shaded patios or courtyard planters.
• Mixed Azalea Beds: Blends beautifully with other Robin Hill or evergreen cultivars.

Low Maintenance Care

Nancy of Robinhill Azalea is easy to grow and requires minimal pruning or intervention once established. Its tidy form and pest resistance make it a reliable performer in home gardens.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells and summer heat.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering if shaping is needed; avoid heavy pruning into old wood.
• Fertilizing: Use a fertilizer for acid-loving plants in early spring and again after bloom if necessary.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to common issues in properly drained, acidic soils.
• Winter Care: Mulch base in fall to insulate roots and retain moisture.

Why Choose Nancy of Robinhill Azalea?

Nancy of Robinhill Azalea (Rhododendron 'Nancy of Robinhill') offers a refined appearance and reliable spring performance in a compact form. Its soft-toned blooms and year-round evergreen structure make it a valuable addition to classic and modern landscapes alike.

• Blush Pink Flowers: Delicate pastel blooms add subtle elegance in spring.
• Compact and Uniform: Grows into a naturally rounded shape with minimal effort.
• Cold Hardy: Bred for durability in mid-Atlantic and northeastern gardens.
• Evergreen Foliage: Provides structure and color even in winter months.
• Versatile Landscape Use: Ideal for beds, borders, containers, and shaded foundations.

For gardeners seeking a compact evergreen azalea with gentle color and consistent form, Nancy of Robinhill Azalea brings quiet beauty and dependable performance to the landscape.