'Hardy Gardenia' Azalea

Rhododendron ‘Hardy Gardenia'

‘Hardy Gardenia’ is a compact (2-3 feet) re-blooming evergreen hybrid azalea.  Most azaleas are evergreen  shrubs and have attractive  winter foliage, though some are deciduous. ‘Hardy Gardenia’ is a slow grower with lightly scented white double-petaled flowers that bloom in spring and reblooms again in  fall.  Its evergreen foliage emerges a light green before maturing to a darker emerald hue. Evergreen azaleas are not very cold hardy; cold winters may freeze the flower buds and reduce bloom come spring, and leaves may experience winter burn.  A very versatile plant that prefers  partial sun with acidic rich, well-drained soils.  Azaleas are excellent  pollination and  butterfly attractors.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  A low maintenance plant.  Moderate water needs, properly drained soils is a must to avoid root rot.  Mulch helps to keep roots from drying out. Keep away from drip lines of the walnut family. Acidify soils as needed (PH range of 5 to 6.5) Can use sulfur or iron sulfate to lower ph, and lime or limestone to raise PH.  Southern climates with excessive humidity are more prone to powdery mildew, twig blights, and rust.

LANDSCAPE USES:  Containers,  Woodland Gardens, Mass or Specimen Plantings,  Borders, Foundation Plantings, Hedges.

COMPANION PLANTS:  Dwarf Bronze Bugleweed, Hosta ‘Frances Williams’, Japanese Painted Fern