Gibraltar Azalea

Gibraltar Azalea, Gibraltar Rhododendron, Deciduous Azalea, or Azalea Gibraltar is a deciduous azalea that blooms in early to mid-May with fragrant orange, flowers that sometimes bear contrasting splotches of color. These large, ruffled trusses are an incredible focal point in a spring garden and offer a unique, colorful addition to the landscape. The foliage of the Gibraltar Azalea delights in more than one season by turning a brilliant orange-red to burgundy in the fall. It stands at a height of 4 to 6 feet with a spread of 3 to 5 feet. Native to the United States, the Gibraltar Azalea is an upright growing, low-maintenance option, great for anyone looking for a statement piece in their spring landscape. They are very hardy plants that attract spring butterflies, hummingbirds, and critical pollinators. Although beautiful, the Gibraltar Azalea is considered a poisonous plant. Keep them out of reach of children and pets who could accidentally ingest them. Gibraltar Azalea Care The Gibraltar Azalea is ideal in areas with full to partial sunlight or dappled shade. Plant them beneath tall trees in hot areas to ensure the summer heat does not cause their leaf centers to bleach or burn. However, your Azaleas should not be in full shade. Too much shade can make your Azaleas lanky with fewer blooms. You should water them regularly. The ideal soil for Gibraltar Azaleas is acidic and well-drained. Feed your established Azaleas with acidic fertilizer before bloom in early spring, then again when new leaves begin to grow, just as the blooms are fading. If your soil is clay or alkaline, you should plant your Gibraltar Azaleas in a raised bed. Plant with the rootball slightly above soil level. These plants are surface rooters and benefit from mulching at the base to retain moisture. Prune your Azaleas while they are dormant and leafless. Azaleas do not have to be pruned as carefully as rhododendrons. The leaves are evenly spaced along the branches, with a bud at the base of each leaf. New growth will sprout anywhere you cut, so dont be afraid to trim them well. They are susceptible to mildew and root weevils, so watch your plant for signs of distress. Gibraltar Azalea Spacing Gibraltar Azaleas are especially beautiful when planted in groups. They are very hardy and can even be sheared into a formal hedge. Space at least 3 feet apart, center on center for a hedge. Or 5 feet apart, center on center, for a mass planting. That will allow enough space for the roots to grow and for air circulation between the plants.