Plant Quick Guide

Growing Zones:

7-9.

Mature Height:

6-8 ft

Mature Width:

6-8 ft

Sunlight:

Prefers partial shade; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Can tolerate more sun in cooler climates.

Spacing:

6-8 ft

Growth Rate:

Moderate to fast

Flower Color:

Lavender-Purple

Harvest Time:

Blooms in early to mid-spring

Does Not Ship To:

AK, AZ, CA, HI, PR

Rhododendron - Formosa Azalea

Rhododendron indicum 'Formosa'
USDA Hardiness Zones: 7-9.
Regular price $54.95
SKU: AZAFOR03G

Description

Formosa Azalea (Rhododendron indicum)

A Bold, Spring-Flowering Shrub with Large Lavender-Purple Blooms

The Formosa Azalea is a vigorous evergreen azalea prized for its exceptionally large, showy lavender-purple flowers that create a dramatic spring display. Blooming in early to mid-spring, this azalea makes a striking statement in the landscape, with vibrant blooms set against glossy, dark green foliage. Known for its strong growth habit and dependable performance, Formosa Azalea is a classic Southern favorite for adding bold color and structure to gardens and landscapes.

Key Features:

  • Spectacular Spring Blooms: Produces oversized clusters of lavender-purple, trumpet-shaped flowers that deliver a stunning floral display in early to mid-spring.

  • Vigorous & Dependable: Known for strong growth, reliable blooming, and long-term landscape performance.

  • Evergreen Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves provide year-round interest and a rich backdrop for spring blooms.

  • Low Maintenance: Easy to grow once established, making it a dependable choice for home landscapes.

  • Pollinator Friendly: Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.

Mature Size:

  • Height: 6–8 feet

  • Spread: 6–8 feet

  • Growth Rate: Moderate to fast

USDA Hardiness Zones:

  • Zones: 7–9

Chill Hours:

  • Moderate (well-suited for regions with mild to moderate winters)

Care Instructions:

  • Sunlight: Prefers partial shade; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Tolerates more sun with adequate moisture.

  • Soil: Thrives in well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter.

  • Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Keep soil evenly moist but not saturated.

  • Pruning: Prune lightly immediately after flowering, if needed, to maintain size and shape.

  • Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect shallow roots.

Landscape Uses:

  • Ideal for foundation plantings, large shrub borders, and woodland gardens.

  • Excellent as a specimen plant or mass-planted for a bold spring statement.

  • Works beautifully as a natural screen or backdrop shrub.

  • Pairs well with camellias, gardenias, and other shade-loving plants.

  • Adds dramatic seasonal color and strong curb appeal to residential landscapes.

The Formosa Azalea is a bold, classic landscape shrub that delivers spectacular spring blooms, evergreen structure, and easy care. Whether used as a focal point, screening plant, or mass planting, this azalea brings vibrant color and timeless Southern charm to the garden year after year.

Shipping

At Plant Me Green we handle, package and ship the products you order with the utmost care. We ship your plants using FedEx Ground® the following business day after you have completed checkout.

We are now offering $15 flat rate shipping for all tree orders! Replacement tree shipping cost will be $15 per box. We still cannot ship to some states and US territories based off the Agricultural Laws that may be in place. Please see below for all exclusions. 

If you have any questions concerning transit time for your order, please feel free to contact us at info@plantmegreen.com or toll free 855-817-5268.

Trees: Due to strict Agricultural Laws in place, we currently cannot ship to the following states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii. We cannot ship to Puerto Rico or international.

How to Plant
STEP 1) First, decide on a planting location. Consider carefully what kind of sun, soil, and growing-space your tree or shrub will need.
STEP 2) Once you've located the perfect spot, the hole you are digging must be at least double the width and as deep as the root system you are planting.
STEP 3) Remove the plant from the pot and place the root ball in the hole. The top of the root system should be level with the ground. Before placing the tree or shrub in the hole, use your hands to gently break up the root system.
STEP 4) Once the plant is in place, backfill the hole with native soil and any leftover potting material.
STEP 5) Pack down the soil to eliminate any air pockets.
STEP 6) When finished, water thoroughly.
Care Guide

Sunlight: Prefers partial shade; morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Tolerates more sun in cooler climates.

Soil: Thrives in well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter.

Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.

Pruning: Prune lightly right after flowering, if needed, to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth.

Mulching: Apply mulch to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect shallow roots.