Azalea ‘Hershey Red’, commonly known as Azalea, is a compact evergreen shrub prized for its bold, bright red flowers and tidy, rounded form. Blooming in mid to late spring, this variety reaches about 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent choice for small gardens, foundation beds, or mass plantings. The vivid red blooms are slightly ruffled and contrast beautifully with the glossy dark green foliage, which provides year-round structure and a touch of winter interest. ‘Hershey Red’ is dependable, showy, and easy to maintain in part-shade garden settings.

Why choose Hershey Red Azalea

Brilliant red blooms: Vivid flowers bring dramatic spring color

Compact evergreen form: Perfect for low hedges, borders, and small spaces

Reliable and hardy: Performs consistently in a variety of shaded landscapes

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Prefers part shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun

Soil needs: Moist, acidic, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter

Maintenance: Low—light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape

Designs for your garden

Foundation planting: Works well as a low, colorful shrub near buildings

Borders and beds: Adds eye-catching color to shady areas

Mass planting: Creates a striking carpet of red in spring when planted in groups

Ecological benefits

Pollinator attraction: Spring blooms support early pollinators

Year-round cover: Evergreen foliage offers shelter for birds and small wildlife

Erosion control: Dense roots help stabilize shaded slopes and garden beds

Looking for a native option?

Here are three native plants that offer similar seasonal interest and landscape value:

– Hibiscus moscheutos – Swamp Rose Mallow

– Phlox subulata ‘Drummond’s Pink’ – Drummond’s Pink Creeping Phlox

– Rhododendron maximum Roseum – Rosebay Rhododendron