Electric Lights Red Azalea

Size

For an injection of color in mid to late spring, the Electric Lights Red Azalea is hard to beat. Brightening up any border, it produces bright fire-engine-red blooms that are fragrant and contrast nicely against its glossy, oval foliage. With an upright and multi-stemmed habit, this shrub is hardy and a great choice for gardens in zone 4. Growing to a final 4-5 feet tall by 3-4 feet wide, it remains a manageable size. Slow growing and long lived, this shrub will provide interest for years to come. Its hardy new buds that appear in spring develop into stunning flowers that can attract hummingbirds and make a welcome addition to an indoor vase. As a low-maintenance shrub, once established it requires little care. Often used as a specimen shrub in a border or to form an informal screen or low hedge. Electric Lights Red Azalea Care As with all azaleas, the Electric Lights Red Azalea needs to be grown in ericaceous soil that is fertile and well-drained. For the best blooms, it prefers a sheltered spot in full sun, although it will tolerate some partial shade if needs be. Azaleas strongly dislike soggy or waterlogged soil, so good drainage is a must. However, they prefer moist soil, especially for the first year or two while they get established. To encourage the best flower display, an azalea or rhododendron fertilizer can be applied in early spring. The Electric Lights Red Azalea does not require regular pruning. However, any dead, diseased or crossing material can be removed, and the shrub can be lightly pruned back to shape immediately after flowering in spring. To help keep the soil moist, an annual mulch of pine straw or leaf mold can be applied around the base of the plant. Electric Lights Red Azalea Spacing The Electric Lights Red Azalea can grow to 4-5 feet high with a 3-4 feet spread. If you are looking to create an informal hedge or if planting en masse, a spacing of 3-4 feet apart center on center is advisable.