A deciduous mollis azalea bearing trusses of glowing orange-red trumpet blooms on bare stems in spring, followed by fiery autumn foliage. A cold-climate favourite. All parts contain grayanotoxins and are toxic to pets and people.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 1.5 m H × 1.2 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea
Botanically, Rhododendron mollis 'Koster's Brilliant Red' is a moderate-growing shrub in the Ericaceae family. It reaches around 1.5 m tall and 1.2 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage. Orange and red flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea
Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea does best in acidic and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea does best with regular, moderate watering. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea in the garden
Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, pots and courtyard containers and its fragrance. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Combine Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children.
Buying Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea
Plant Sale lists Koster's Brilliant Red Azalea as potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
