Huge Iconic Purple Blooms Bloom Prolifically in Early Spring

If you are looking to really ‘wow’ with your landscape, look no further. The Formosa Azalea Shrub will have neighbors and guests alike in awe with its luxurious blooms! Our favorite azalea variety.

The Azalea Formosa features rich, lavender-pink blossoms with darker accented blotches that are large and showy. This evergreen shrub will bloom early spring to midseason on tall, upright plants. Sometimes a second flower bud will appear in early fall with fragrant red flowers. The large evergreen foliage of the plant will have colored blooms covering the deep dark green color to contrast nicely.

This fast-growing azalea bush is not deciduous and will keep its deep pink blossoms until the first frost. It is a spreading type plant that spreads from seed pods and can be planted in dappled shade. Its fast growth rate makes it very versatile to grow!

FORMOSA AZALEA BUSH CARE

The red Formosa Azalea is the most widely planted flowering shrub in the south, and its care is minimal and it withstands drought, heat, and cold. This evergreen azalea prefers well-drained soil that is rich in humus and organic matter and can grow up to 8 feet tall with a 6 feet widespread. Truly remarkable!

The soil preferences of the southern indica azalea are minimal. It can tolerate a variety of soils and planting sites. The Formosa does need protection from the wind and regular required watering. Azaleas prefer being planted in a medium with a soil pH of 4.5-6. They like acidic soil! Perform a soil test if needed or use our Acidic Potting Mix!

The Formosa bush prefers full sun to partial shade and is somewhat cold hardy but cannot withstand freezing temperatures. Semi drought tolerant once established. Has an upright growth habit and is a great choice for foundation planting.

Where to Plant Formosa Azaleas

Grow across the United States in USDA plant hardiness zones 7-10.

It is recommended that you apply a thick layer (roughly 3 inches) of mulch around the azalea shrub to help control weed growth. Use a regular watering schedule throughout the first growing season to help establish a root system. You can use mulch, organic materials, or pine needles to mulch the shallow-rooted plant.

Loosen the roots when you plant the azaleas to encourage a quick growth rate. Keep soil moist and water the planted azalea thoroughly. These acid-loving plants will benefit from an annual application of slow-release fertilizer at the top of the root ball.

Prune azaleas in late spring or early summer maintain desired size and shape. Cut back diseased or dead branches to allow room for new growth. Make sure you do not prune until after the flowering is finished but before new flower buds arrive. You can even prune this bush into a Formosa Tree! Trim or pinch back wilted flowers to encourage new bloom each spring.

You will love our Formosa Azalea plants for sale! They are easy to grow and so beautiful!

Check out our Azalea Grow Guide!

Ask a question