Gumpo Pink Azalea

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2 Feet

Mature Spread

2-3 Feet

Growing Zones

6 to 8

The Gumpo Pink Azalea, Gumpo Pink Rhododendron, or Azalea Gumpo Pink is a deciduous azalea that makes a huge impact. Thicker and fuller than other varieties, the Gumpo Pink Azalea has mammoth, ruffled trusses of soft pink petals that, when they bloom in summer, almost conceal the bright green foliage beneath. The Gumpo Pink Azalea stands at a height of 18 to 24 inches, with a spread of 2 to 3 feet.

Native to North America, the Gumpo Pink Azalea is a mounding, easy-to-grow variety, great for anyone wanting to make a big impact in a small space. They are very hardy plants that attract bees, spring butterflies, and hummingbirds. They are deer and critter resistant, and considered a poisonous plant. Keep them away from children and pets who could accidentally ingest them. 

Gumpo Pink Azalea Care

The ideal growing conditions for Gumpo Pink Azaleas are in areas with full to partial sun and acidic, well-drained soil. They need consistent, regular watering during the growing season. Plant them underneath tall trees in hot climates to help keep their leaf centers safe from bleach or burn. However, your Gumpo Pink Azaleas should not be planted in full shade. Too much shade can make your Azaleas weak and bloomless.

If your azaleas are well-established, fertilize them with acidic fertilizer meant for azaleas and rhododendrons in early spring, before they bloom. Then, fertilize them again when new leaves begin to grow, just as the blooms are fading. Consider an enriched raised bed for your Gumpo Pink Azaleas if your soil is clay or alkaline. Plant them with the root ball just above soil level. Azaleas are surface rooters and benefit from mulching at the base to retain moisture and protect delicate root systems.

Azaleas should be pruned while they are dormant and leafless, and they 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 don’t be afraid to cut them down in the late fall. They are susceptible to mildew and root weevils, so watch your plant for signs of distress. 

Gumpo Pink Azalea Spacing

Gumpo Pink Azaleas are especially beautiful when planted in colorful masses. They are very strong and hardy and can even be sheared into a formal hedge, if you prefer. When planting, space your azaleas at least 3 to 5 feet apart center to center. They are an excellent option for small lawns and gardens with limited space. The Gumpo Pink Azalea pairs well with ferns, hosta, and other woodland perennials.