Azalea Sunbow® Solar Flare

Rhododendron ‘QbackB’ PP27083

‘Solar Flare’ is a twiggy, full-sized native deciduous azalea shrub. The Sunbow is a three-part series of sun-tolerant native azalea.  ‘Solar Flare’ has a large upright habit with small green leaves and clusters of abundant of yellow-orange buds on the branch tips that open to fragrant bright yellow flowers early in spring.  A very versatile plant that prefers morning or partial sun with acidic rich, well-drained soils.  Azaleas are excellent pollination and butterfly attractors.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  A low maintenance plant.  Moderate water needs, properly drained soils is a must to avoid root rot.  Mulch helps to keep roots from drying out. Keep away from drip lines of the walnut family. Acidify soils as needed (PH range of 5 to 6.5) Can use sulfur or iron sulfate to lower ph, and lime or limestone to raise PH. Buds grow on old growth in winter, so if need to prune do so after the spring bloom.  Southern climates with excessive humidity are more prone to powdery mildew, twig blights, and rust. 

LANDSCAPE USES:  Containers, Woodland Gardens, Mass or Specimen Plantings, Borders, Foundation Plantings, Hedges, Native Gardens.

COMPANION PLANTS: Climbing Hydrangea, Viburnum Coppertop, Camelia ‘Bernice Boddy’