Botanical name: Rhododendron "Girard Crimson," "Girard Fuchsia," "Girard Rose"

Botanical name: Rhododendron "Girard Crimson," "Girard Fuchsia," "Girard Rose"
Attributes: Girard Azaleas are some of the hardiest of all evergreen azaleas: Their flower buds can survive at 15 degrees below zero, and the plants will survive even colder weather. The shrubs are completely covered with flowers while in bloom and they have foliage that turns dark bronzy tones in winter. Plants are relatively compact and require little or no pruning.
Bloom color: Striking crimson, vivacious fuchsia and bright rose.
Bloom time: Late April or early May.
Culture: Plant these azaleas into moist, well-drained soil that has been generously amended and mulched with organic matter (we highly recommend cottonbur compost and ground pine bark). They must be shaded from the hot afternoon sun and be sure to keep them moist through the summer and especially in fall and winter so flower buds do not dry out. Plant them in sites sheltered from wind; east or north exposures or woodland gardens are best. Fertilize them with azalea/rhododendron/camellia recommended products in spring and early summer.
Landscaping tips: Spectacular when massed in woodland gardens beneath oak and other trees with open canopies (they are not suitable beneath toxic walnuts or dense maples). Knockout companion plants include flowering dogwoods, Carolina silverbells, buckeyes, other azaleas, brunnera, bleeding hearts, pulmonaria, golden groundsel and hostas.
Cost: Girard Azaleas usually cost about $20 for a 2-gallon plant, but cost varies by the plant's size.
Source: Powell Gardens (www.powellgardens.org)