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Rhododendron x Northern Lights - Northern Lights Hybrid Azaleas
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| The leaf of Northern Lights Azalea is oblong in shape and a dark green color. | Showy tropical flowers bloom at the terminal buds. They form in clusters and put on a very showy display. Image: University of Minnesota |
Plant Description
Rhododendron x Northern Lights Hybrids, or Northern Lights Azalea is a small to medium (3-6 feet high and wide) flowering deciduous shrub with a distinct tropical feel. Although Azaleas are typically an evergreen plant grown in a temperate climate - these deciduous Azaleas are extremely cold hardy. They grow best in moist and acidic conditions, but will tolerate our soils and heat as long as they are adequately watered.
The leaves are oblong, arranged alternately on the stem. They are a bright green to dark green in color. The bright and showy flowers form in clusters at the terminal buds, with 4-10 flowers per cluster. The flowers emerge in the spring and come in a number of bright and showy colors, most notably pinks, yellows and oranges. The flowers have five petals with long stamens curling up at the ends. They have a very tropical feel.
Landscape Use
Use as a flowering plant in a shrub or perennial border. The tropical appearance of the blossoms make it a good selection for a plant next to a patio or window.
Points of Interest
Azaleas are susceptible to a great number of diseases, but rarely do they suffer from them in our climate. The most common problems we may have is leaf spot, leaf scorch and powdery mildew.
Notable Cultivars
Golden Lights
Bright yellow blossoms and better disease resistance. Grows five feet high and wide.
White Lights
Pure white blossoms with a dusting of yellow color in the throat. Five feet high and wide.
Mandarin Lights
Bright orange blossoms. Grows 6 feet high and wide.
Rosy Lights
Deep and vibrant pink blossoms and the largest cultivar, growing up to 8 feet high and wide.
