The azalea belongs to the genus Rhododendron – a very large family of shallow-rooted, woody plants.  Azaleas’ spectacular display of vivid colors, profusion of flowers and adaptability to a wide range of environments make them one of the most popular flowering shrubs in the country.  A hardy, flowering shrub, the azalea is ideal for adding color and depth to any landscape.  With attractive pastel hues, they are a popular floral accent that can grow both indoors and outdoors.

In the language of flowers, azaleas are heralds of spring and symbolize temperance.  Many use azaleas, with their thin, soft, and pointed leaves, to express temperance and prudence in love.  Considered very elegant in nature, azaleas continue to be a call for balance.  Red Azaleas signify unconditional love; purple azaleas signify foresight and good judgment; pink azaleas signify beauty and femininity.

The word azalea is of Greek origin with the word “azaleos” meaning “dry.”  The term has been used because of the light soil it needs to develop and grow abundantly.  Generally, azaleas are a low-maintenance plant.  When planted in the right location and with a bit of basic care, they will thrive in most yards.  These easy-care flowering shrubs reward gardeners with massive blooms.  Azaleas require about one inch of water per week and they rarely requiring pruning or trimming.  However, it is recommended that gardeners tidy them up after spring and summer blooms if growth becomes unbalanced.

At Saturday’s Earth Day Celebration, Woodlawn’s annual event paying tribute to our big blue marble, children from our community, with a little help from our tree guru, Herb Landmann, Project Manager of the Davey Tree Company, planted a cornucopia of azaleas.  Among these delightful flowering shrubs were Delaware Valley white,  Hino-Crimson red, and Tradition Pink azaleas.  It will approximately four to five years for these heavy bloomers to reach their full size.