Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Rhododendron x 'Karen'
Karen Azalea
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Height
- 3 to 5 ft
- Width
- 3 to 5 ft
- Flower color
- Lavender-pink to lavender-purple clusters
- Foliage color
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen deep green leaves; burgundy or purplish tones in cool weather
- Bloom time
- Mid to late spring
- Light
- Full sun to part shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; minimal pruning needed beyond light shaping after flowering
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 9
- Wildlife
- Fragrant shows of spring flowers attract pollinators; evergreen foliage provides shelter and cover for birds and small wildlife
About this plant
Rhododendron x 'Karen' is an evergreen azalea that blooms in spring, with clusters of pink to lavender-purple flowers that may show red color and spotting in the throat. The blossoms are lightly fragrant and sit above small, glossy leaves that stay neat through the growing season. As temperatures cool, the foliage often turns burgundy to red-purple, adding winter color.
'Karen' comes from the Gable Hybrid program, developed from hardy evergreen azalea species. It is grown for reliable spring flowering and attractive year-round foliage, fitting woodland edges, foundation beds, and mixed shrub borders where early bloom and winter leaf color are appreciated.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Borders · Cottage Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Larkspur · Windflower · Hardy mum · Fountain grass · Candytuft · Columbine
Design tip
Choose a location where ‘Karen’ can contribute beyond spring, allowing its burgundy winter foliage to enliven a quieter part of the garden. Its compact evergreen form also works well among deciduous shrubs, maintaining fullness after neighboring plants lose their leaves.
