Azaleas are in bloom all over Charlotte right now and really stand out at this time of year. Traditional Azaleas show off their blossoms for 2 to 3 weeks every spring, and the newer Encore Azaleas bloom for up to 9 months out of the year.
Azaleas have been grown for hundreds of years and over 10,000 cultivars are in existence. They were first used as landscaping plants in the United States in the early 1800’s at a plantation in Charleston, South Carolina. Azaleas are typically slow growing and prefer well drained, acidic soil. They are also shade tolerant and go well with other plants such as Camellias, Hydrangeas, and Hostas. They grow amazingly well here in the South East and offer unmatched spring color.
