Lavender Formosa Azalea

Is this plant deer resistant?

Yes, lavender formosa (Japanese ardisia) is deer-resistant.

do you ship plants to california?

We do!

How much area between plants around house to become hedge

When planting Lavender Formosa Azaleas (Rhododendron indicum 'Formosa') to form a hedge, space them 3 to 4 feet apart. This closer spacing encourages the plants to grow together, creating a dense, continuous hedge. Over time, the shrubs will fill in, providing a lush, vibrant display of purple flowers while offering privacy and structure to your landscape.

Deer resistant, yes or no?

Yes, the Lavender Formosa Azalea (Rhododendron indicum 'Formosa') is considered deer resistant. While no plant is completely deer-proof, azaleas like Lavender Formosa are less attractive to deer due to their leathery leaves. However, in areas with heavy deer pressure, even resistant plants may be grazed. Planting Lavender Formosa in a protected area or using deer repellents can help keep these shrubs safe from browsing.

Will this thrive in mostly shade?

Yes, the Lavender Formosa Azalea (Rhododendron indicum 'Formosa') thrives in partial shade. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, it performs best in locations with filtered light or morning sun followed by afternoon shade. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch, so providing a shaded environment helps maintain its vibrant blooms and healthy foliage. For optimal growth, plant it in well-draining, acidic soil, and water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

How tall will the plant get

The Lavender Formosa Azalea (Rhododendron indicum 'Formosa') typically grows to a height of 6 to 8 feet at maturity, with a similar spread of 4 to 6 feet. This evergreen azalea is known for its vibrant lavender blooms and dense foliage, making it an excellent choice for creating colorful hedges or focal points in the garden. It thrives in USDA Zones 8 to 10, preferring partial shade and well-draining, acidic soil. With proper care, it will grow into a stunning, medium-sized shrub that adds beauty to any landscape.

Full shade?

The Lavender Formosa Azalea (Rhododendron indicum 'Formosa') prefers partial shade rather than full shade. While it can tolerate some shade, it performs best with dappled sunlight or morning sun and afternoon shade. In areas with too much shade, its vibrant lavender blooms may be reduced, and the plant may grow leggy. This azalea thrives in USDA Zones 8 to 10, and it enjoys well-draining, acidic soil with adequate moisture to support healthy growth and flowering. For optimal results, avoid planting it in deep, full shade.

Can they withstand cold winners and do they lose their leaves in the winter?

Lavender Formosa Azalea (Rhododendron indicum 'Formosa') is moderately cold-hardy, typically thriving in USDA Zones 8-10. It may not withstand harsh, cold winters found in zones lower than Zone 8. If planted in colder regions, frost and freezing temperatures could damage the plant, so protection during winter may be necessary in these areas.

As an evergreen azalea, Lavender Formosa does not lose its leaves during the winter in its preferred zones. However, in particularly cold winters or if the plant is stressed, it might shed some leaves or experience leaf discoloration.

I live in Yuma Az does lavender suffer high temperatures well

The Lavender Formosa Azalea (Rhododendron indicum 'Formosa') typically struggles in extreme heat, such as the high temperatures in Yuma, Arizona. This plant prefers more moderate climates and partial shade, with cooler conditions and protection from the intense desert heat. It thrives best in USDA zones 8-10, but Yuma's excessive heat and dry conditions would likely cause stress to the plant. If you try to grow it there, providing ample shade, regular watering, and perhaps even using mulch to retain soil moisture may help, but it may not thrive as well as in cooler environments.

Deer resistant?

The Lavender Formosa Azalea (Rhododendron indicum 'Formosa') is generally not considered deer-resistant. While azaleas are beautiful and popular shrubs, they tend to be a favorite food for deer, especially in areas where other food sources are limited. If you have concerns about deer in your garden, it’s a good idea to use repellents or plant deer-resistant species alongside your azaleas to help protect them.

Best time to prune

The best time to prune a Lavender Formosa Azalea is immediately after it finishes blooming, typically in late spring. Azaleas set their flower buds for the next season during the summer, so pruning right after the blooms fade ensures you don’t accidentally remove the buds for next year's flowers. Avoid pruning in late summer or fall, as this can reduce blooming in the following spring. Focus on removing dead or damaged branches, thinning out crowded areas, and shaping the plant for a fuller, healthier appearance.

How wide when fully matured?

A mature Lavender Formosa Azalea (Rhododendron indicum 'Formosa') typically grows to be about 4 to 6 feet wide.

Will this plant tolerate Tucson summers?

Will this survive so. FL heat?

Yes, Lavender Formosa Azalea can survive Florida heat, especially in partial shade where it gets some protection from intense afternoon sun. It thrives in zones 8-10, which includes much of Florida, and prefers well-drained soil. Providing adequate water and some shade during the hottest parts of the day will help it stay healthy in Florida's warm climate.

Hello / you say these grow to 8’ tall. How far apart should they be planted. Do they spread for a hedge? Thanks.

Height: Lavender Formosa typically grows 2-3 feet tall.
Spacing: Plant them 18-24 inches apart for proper airflow and growth.
Hedge Use: Yes, they can form a hedge but may need pruning for a dense appearance.

Can you make them into a hedge and if so how far apart should you plant them.

Spacing: Plant them 18-24 inches apart for proper airflow and growth.
Hedge Use: Yes, they can form a hedge but may need pruning for a dense appearance.