1 / 3

Key characteristics

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

Shrubs

Rhododendron x 'Karen'

Karen Azalea

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.

Light

Full sun to part shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Mid to late spring

Find this plant

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.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)