Red Slippers Azalea features clusters of pale red flowers early in the spring, which invite native pollinators into your garden. The small, oval leaves are a deep green, giving garden borders a dense and lush look. Broadleaf evergreens, like Red Slippers, provide structure to a garden when all of the herbaceous perennials disappear during the winter months. Rhododendron ‘Red Slippers’ is winter hardy in USDA growing zones 6b-9b.
Red Slippers Azalea grows slowly, reaching 2 feet high after 10 years, making it a great choice for small spaces and urban gardens. Low-profile azaleas work well for edging a woodland garden bed, adding color to a foundation planting, or growing in a container to brighten a deck, patio, or entryway. Underplant Azaleas with spring bulbs such as crocus, daffodils, and hyacinth for a bold spring color display that lasts for weeks. Deer and rabbits rarely browse on evergreen azaleas.
Red Slippers Azalea Care
All azaleas grow best in acidic and well-draining soil. Azaleas do not like to dry out completely and should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to avoid wetting the foliage. Watering will need to continue throughout winter in climates that do not experience temperatures below 45 degrees F (7 C). Mulch the root zone annually with 2-3 inches of organic compost or arborist chips to reduce water loss and suppress weed growth. Fertilize Red Slippers with a product for acid-loving plants after the first flush of blooms.
Pruning or deadheading is rarely required for Red Slippers. This shrub retains a compact form and is extremely slow growing. Only prune out damaged branches at the end of winter, being careful to not disturb any developing flower buds.
Red Slippers Azalea Spacing
The mature height and spread for Red Slippers is 3-4 feet over a long period. Plant shrubs 3 feet apart, center on center, to create a low-growing hedge. Provide specimen plants with 4 feet of clearance to allow for good air circulation. Use a container with at least a 16-inch diameter for potting plants.
Red Slippers Azalea Information
USDA Hardiness Zones: 7 – 9
Plant Type:
Light Exposure: Partial Sun (5 – 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)
Mature Height: 3 Feet
Mature Spread: 3 – 4 Feet
Spacing: 3 – 4 Feet
Habit: Mounded
Flower Color(s): Pink, Red
Flower Description: Red to Pinkish Red
Bloom Period: Fall to Spring
Foliage Type: Evergreen
Foliage Color(s): Green
Foliage Description: Green Shades
Seasonal Interest: Spring Flowering, Fall Flowering, Fall Interest
