Azalea 'GIBRALTAR'

Deciduous azaleas are probably the most striking flowering shrubs. Their colours are vivid and bright, and often have the shades that not many rhododendrons can offer. They need full sun.

Gibraltar is undoubtedly the bestseller among orange varieties as this orange is deep and glowing. It has frilled margins and blooms reliably every year. Flowers lack strong fragrance. Bred by E. de Rotschild in 1947, GB. Though a perfect fit among Mollis azaleas - rich orange, non-fragrant flowers and compact growth, the Internation Rhododendron Registry calls it a Knap Hill variety.

Deciduous azaleas are ericaceous plants, loving insulate position with constantly moist soil. During temporary summer dry spells in certain areas their leaves may suffer and be prone to fungus infections. When spots appear on the leaves or they lose colour and start to curl use a suitable fungicide immediately. 1-2 sprays should help the plant remain beautiful and healthy.

They require no pruning. Should you need to shape or rejuvenate your plant do so as early in the spring as possible so that it can still make new twigs with flower buds for the next season. It re-sprouts reliably. It has many surface roots which spread to sides in search for nutrients and water. The best soil mixture consists of peat, lime-free compost and leaf-mould. Fully hardy to min. -34°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update 10-01-2009.