Azalea 'Tradition' is a deciduous azalea cultivar known for its showy deep pink to rose colored blooms that appear in mid to late spring. Its upright mounded form and vivid floral display make it clear favorite for woodland edges and shaded borders.
Height & Spread: 4 - 6 ft x 3 - 5 ft
Bloom Time: Mid to late spring
Light Requirements: Part shade; tolerates filtered sun
Soil Preference: Acidic, moist, well drained soil rich in organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate; requires consistent moisture, especially in dry periods
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from hybrid deciduous azaleas native to the eastern United States. While not a wild species, it retains many ecological characteristics of its native parents.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts spring flying butterflies such as Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Falcate Orangetip with its colorful blooms.
Bees
- Visited by bumblebees and native solitary bees that seek nectar from its funnel shaped flowers.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 3 - 5 ft apart to allow for mature size and air circulation between plants.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for woodland gardens, shaded foundations, or naturalistic borders. Pairs well with other acid loving understory shrubs and perennials.
Companion Plants
- Rhododendron periclymenoides (Pinxterbloom Azalea) - Adds native presence and extended spring bloom in part shade.
- Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea) - Provides summer bloom and structural foliage in acid soils.
- Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania Sedge) - Supplies a naturalistic ground layer beneath azaleas.
- Fothergilla major - Offers fragrant white bottlebrush flowers and outstanding fall color.
- Hosta 'June' - Brightens shady bases with soft variegated leaves and late summer flowers.