Azalea, Karen #3
AZALEA 'KAREN'
Rhododendron 'Karen'
- Height: Typically reaches 2–4 feet tall in cooler regions
- Spread: Grows about 2–3 feet wide
- Spacing: Plant 2–3 feet apart for best coverage
- Growth Rate: Moderate
Description
Azalea ‘Karen’ is a beloved semi-evergreen hybrid that produces an abundance of vibrant, lavender-pink blooms in mid-spring. The display attracts bees and butterflies, bringing added life to the garden. Foliage often takes on a bronzy hue as temperatures drop, extending its interest into the cooler months. Its compact size suits smaller landscapes, borders, or foundation plantings, and it can adapt to container growing when provided with acidic, well-drained soil and steady moisture. While some azalea species are native, this particular hybrid is not.
General Care
- Sunlight: Thrives in partial shade, ideally 3–4 hours of morning or filtered sunlight per day.
- Soil: Prefers rich, acidic soil with good drainage; mix in organic matter if soil is dense.
- Watering: Keep the root zone consistently moist, especially during bloom time and in hot, dry weather.
- Mulching: A 2–3 inch layer of mulch helps regulate soil temperature and maintain moisture levels.
- Pruning: Light pruning immediately after flowering helps maintain shape and encourages healthy growth.
Azalea ‘Karen’ brings dynamic spring color and multi-season interest to cooler climates, making it a versatile addition to a range of garden settings.