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Common Name: evergreen azalea
Type: Broadleaf evergreen
Family: Ericaceae
Zone: 4 to 8
Garden Location: Cornelia Sunnen Backyard Garden, Kemper Center Landscape
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Spread: 2 to 3 feet
Bloom Time: April
Bloom Color: Purple
Bloom Description: Reddish-purple
Sun: Part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Medium
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Leaves: Evergreen
Other: Winter Interest
Wildlife: Attracts Hummingbirds, Attracts Butterflies
Tolerates: Rabbits
Uses: Hedge
Culture
Best grown in acidic, humusy, organically rich, medium moisture, moisture-retentive but well-drained soils in part shade. Prefers locations with sun-dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade. Avoid hot afternoon sun. Plant in a location sheltered from strong winter winds. Good soil drainage is essential (doesn't like "wet feet"). Poor drainage can cause root rot, therefore raised plantings should be considered in heavy clay soils. Shallow root system (avoid cultivating around shrub) appreciates a good organic mulch (e.g., wood chips, bark, oak leaves or pine needles) to retain moisture and stabilize soil temperatures. Roots must not be allowed to dry out.
Noteworthy Characteristics
This evergreen azalea is a Gable hybrid developed and introduced by the late Joseph Gable of Stewartstown, Pennsylvania. It is a dense, spreading, low-to-medium-sized shrub which typically grows 2-3' tall with a similar spread. Glossy, dark green foliage is evergreen. Clusters of medium-sized, reddish-purple flowers, each with a dark purple blotch, appear in spring (April in the St. Louis area).
Problems
Rhododendrons and azaleas are susceptible to many insect and disease pests, including but not limited to root rot, crown rot, canker, leaf spot, rust, powdery mildew, aphids, borers, lacebugs, leafhoppers, mealy bugs, mites, nematodes, scale, thrips and whitefly. Chlorosis (a yellowing of the leaves while the veins remain green) may occur if soil is not kept acidic. A healthy plant in the proper environment in good soil with proper care should have limited problems, however.
Garden Uses
Mass or group in shrub or mixed borders or woodland gardens. Good specimen value. Also effective as a foundation planting or low hedge.