Tradition Azalea

Light Needs

Partial Sun

(5-6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2-4 Feet

Mature Spread

4-5 Feet

Growing Zones

6 to 9

Azalea ‘Tradition’ is a Kurume hybrid brought to the United States from Japan over 100 years ago. This remarkably tough evergreen is the first Azalea to be cold hardy to zone 6 while still producing masses of deep pink flowers exceptionally early in the spring. Kurume hybrids are very slow growing and often grown as bonsai as well as a container specimen. 

The small, tough evergreen foliage remains year-round to lend structure and color even during the gray winter months. ‘Tradition’ is perfect to use in foundation plantings, under deciduous trees and larger shrubs, or as part of a minimalist Asian-inspired garden design. The slow-growing habit of ‘Tradition’ makes it a great choice to grow in planters for your entryway, deck, or patio alongside other taller growing herbaceous perennials or bulbs. Azaleas are generally deer and rabbit resistant and not bothered by most diseases.  

Tradition Azalea Care

Part shade or dappled sunlight are ideal locations to plant Azaleas in the landscape. The soil needs to be acidic and well draining while retaining sufficient moisture. Annual mulching with organic material such as compost or fine arborist chips will enrich the soil while reducing water loss. Fertilize with a slow-release, granular feed in the spring as the flower buds begin to swell. Look for a formula for acid-loving shrubs and perennials with a balanced NPK ratio of 5-5-5 or similar. 

Light pruning can be done after the flowers have finished in early summer. Always make cuts above a set of leaves or flower buds. Azaleas can be hard pruned to rejuvenate them, although Kurume hybrids such as ‘Tradition’ will be extremely slow to recover. 

Azaleas growing in containers may need to be moved to a protected location if they are in the path of winter storms or wind. Ensure that the pot you use can tolerate your climate’s winter temperatures. Terracotta or glazed porcelain may develop cracks or even flake during repeated freezing and thawing. Watering may be needed in the winter in areas where temperatures rarely fall below 45 degrees F (7 C). 

Tradition Azalea Spacing

The low growing and spreading shape of Tradition Azalea is graceful although very slow to mature. After 10 years the overall height is typically 2-4 feet with a spread of 3-5 feet. Space plants 4 feet apart, center on center, when planting in a garden bed. Closer spacing at 3 feet will allow for a dense hedge. Plant Azaleas in containers of at least 16 inches in diameter.