NGC - Azaleas for the Prairies

ORNAMENTAL SHRUB

RHODODENDRON: AZALEA

Azaleas burst into bloom in the spring with a breathtaking show of flowers that last anywhere from 10-20 days. The branches on most varieties are covered with blooms before the leaves appear. These flowers, blooming earlier then most perennials, attract hummingbirds. The dramatic show continues in the fall when leaves turn to a stunning wine-red color. Developed at the university of Minnesota, the Lights Azalea hybrids have flower buds that are hardy to -40 degrees. They prefer acidic soils and a well-protected planting location in light shade.

Azalea Cultivars for the Prairies

Cultivar Name	Size	Zone	Foliage	Flowers	Description
Golden Lights Azalea Rhododendron x 'Golden Lights'	4-5' (1.5m) x 3-4' (1.25m)	3	Disease resistant	Deep yellow- orange	Upright, rounded deciduous shrub with fragrant flowers.
Mandarin Lights Azalea Rhododendron x 'Mandarin Lights'	4-5' (1.5m) x 4-5' (1.5m)	3	Dark green turning purple in fall	Bright orange- salmon	Medium sized shrub with an upright, round form making it an excellent feature plant for small shrub beds.
Northern Hi-lights Azalea Rhododendron x 'Northern Lights'	3-4' (1.25m) x 3-4' (1.25m)	3		Creamy white with yellow lip, fragrant
Rosy Lights Azalea Rhododendron x 'Rosy Lights'	4-5' (1.5m) x 4-5' (1.5m)	3	Purple red fall foliage	Deep rosy pink	A spreading shrub with an upright growth habit and fragrant flowers.
Orchid Lights Azalea Rhododendron x 'Orchid Lights'	2-3' (1m) x 2-3' (1m)	3		Lilac	Stunning when in full bloom, this dwarf, compact shrub is the hardiest variety.
White Lights Azalea Rhododendron x 'White Lights'	4-5' (1.5m) x 4-5' (1.5m)	4		Pink flowerbuds open to white flowers with pink hi-lights.	Small rounded shrub with fragrant flowers.

Revised by Rachel Giesbrecht on July 4, 2005.