Red Demon Azalea

Red Demon Azalea (Azalea 'Red Demon')

Red Demon Azalea (Azalea 'Red Demon') is a fiery deciduous azalea known for its intense red-orange blooms and upright, compact habit. A standout in the spring landscape, this cultivar is especially valued for its saturated color and reliable performance in a wide range of climates. It makes a bold impression as a specimen or grouped planting and blends well into woodland edges, mixed borders, and foundation beds.

Distinctive Features

'Red Demon' matures to approximately 4 to 5 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide, forming a well-branched shrub with a dense, upright form. In mid to late spring, it bursts into bloom with clusters of bright red-orange, funnel-shaped flowers that glow vividly against the fresh green foliage. This variety holds its color well, creating an electrifying display that can serve as a seasonal focal point in any garden. The foliage may develop bronze to reddish tones in fall, adding seasonal dimension.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best flowering occurs with at least 4�6 hours of direct sunlight.
• Soil: Requires acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter; avoid heavy clay or alkaline soils.
• Water: Moderate; maintain consistent moisture without allowing soil to stay waterlogged.
• Humidity: Adapts well to average humidity; prefers good air circulation in more humid climates.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; dependable bloom and structure in temperate to slightly colder regions.

Ideal Uses

• Spring Focal Point: Bright red-orange blooms provide dynamic seasonal color in small spaces.
• Mixed Borders: Pairs well with conifers, ferns, and other acid-loving shrubs.
• Woodland Gardens: A natural fit under light canopy or alongside shade-tolerant companions.
• Foundation Plantings: Offers seasonal impact and tidy form around homes and structures.
• Accent Planting: A bold statement when used as a single specimen or in small groupings.

Low Maintenance Care

Red Demon Azalea is an easy-care shrub when planted in the right conditions. It requires little pruning, minimal fertilization, and delivers a reliable spring show without demanding attention throughout the year.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, particularly during blooming and summer heat.
• Pruning: Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape; avoid hard pruning outside of the post-bloom period.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, acid-forming fertilizer in early spring and again after bloom if needed.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to common azalea pests; monitor for root rot in poorly drained soils.
• Winter Care: Mulch the root zone in late fall to insulate and retain soil moisture through winter.

Why Choose Red Demon Azalea?

Red Demon Azalea (Azalea 'Red Demon') offers vivid spring color and a clean, upright habit that complements a range of planting styles. Its bold bloom, manageable size, and ease of care make it a versatile and rewarding shrub for gardeners across the country.

• Intense Bloom Color: Saturated red-orange flowers light up the spring landscape.
• Compact and Upright: Maintains a tidy form ideal for borders and foundation plantings.
• Seasonal Interest: Provides both spring flowers and fall foliage color.
• Cold Tolerant: Performs well in a wide range of climates, including USDA Zone 5.
• Minimal Maintenance: Requires little beyond watering and occasional shaping.

For gardeners seeking a bold splash of color and a dependable spring performer, Red Demon Azalea brings intensity, structure, and lasting appeal to the landscape.