Tri-Lights Azalea

Tri-Lights Azalea (Rhododendron 'Tri-Lights')

Tri-Lights Azalea (Rhododendron 'Tri-Lights') is a striking deciduous azalea from the Northern Lights series, known for its bicolor flowers and excellent cold hardiness. Developed by the University of Minnesota, this variety offers a vibrant and unusual floral display in mid to late spring, with multicolored blooms that bring brightness and texture to cold-climate landscapes. Its upright habit and reliable performance make it a strong candidate for focal points, mixed shrub borders, and woodland edges.

Distinctive Features

'Tri-Lights' matures to 4 to 6 feet tall and wide, forming a rounded, upright shrub with good structure. The large, fragrant flowers are soft pink with bold yellow flares and white undertones, creating a tricolor effect that�s rare among azaleas. Blooms appear in clusters before or just as the foliage emerges, lighting up the garden with their delicate yet vibrant coloring. Foliage is medium green through summer and takes on warm tones in fall.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; best flowering occurs with 4 to 6 hours of direct light.
• Soil: Requires acidic, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; maintain steady moisture, especially during flowering and establishment.
• Humidity: Tolerates average humidity; ensure good air circulation to prevent foliar issues.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 7

Ideal Uses

• Focal point in spring for a unique and eye-catching display
• Woodland gardens where it thrives in partial shade
• Foundation plantings to add color and structure around porches, patios, and entries
• Mixed shrub borders for contrast with evergreen and purple foliage plants
• Cold-climate landscapes where dependable bloom is needed

Low Maintenance Care

• Keep soil consistently moist, particularly during bloom and dry weather
• Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead wood
• Apply an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring
• Resistant when planted in well-drained soil with good air movement
• Apply mulch around the base in fall to protect roots and maintain moisture

Why Choose Tri-Lights Azalea?

• Unusual tricolor flowers in pink, white, and yellow
• Cold hardy and bred for reliable bloom in USDA Zone 4 and colder
• Compact and upright form well-suited to borders, beds, and small landscapes
• Fragrant blooms attract early-season bees and butterflies
• Offers beauty in spring, structure in summer, and color in fall

For distinctive spring color and proven cold-weather resilience, Tri-Lights Azalea offers beauty and dependability in every season.