shrub

'Gibraltar' Azalea

Rhododendron x fruticosum 'Gibraltar'

$95.40

The Story

Plant Bio

A vigorous, upright, deciduous shrub from the Exbury group of hybrid azaleas, prized for its spectacular spring flowers and good fall color.

Features large, fragrant, ball-shaped trusses of brilliant, fiery orange, funnel-shaped flowers with frilled petals. An RHS Award of Garden Merit winner known for its reliable performance.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery and fragrant spring blooms, ideal for shaded gardens.

Prefers acidic, well-drained soil that encourages healthy growth.

Supports local pollinators such as bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

20+ years

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

All parts are highly toxic if ingested by humans and pets.

Bloom period

Late spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Nature Hills

In Stock$95.40

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a well-draining, acidic soil with organic matter.
Plant in a location with partial shade to protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Tuck roots into a hole twice as wide as root ball and firm soil around.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells, for 6 weeks.
Mulch with pine bark or needles to conserve moisture and regulate soil pH.

Pro Tip

Use a mixture of peat moss and pine bark for optimal soil acidity and drainage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Do water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
Do mulch annually to retain moisture and keep roots cool
Do prune after flowering to shape and remove dead branches

Don't

Don't plant in alkaline soil; it can harm the rhododendron ❌
Don't overfertilize; too much nitrogen can cause leggy growth
Don't expose to harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen shrub for shaded bordersContainer plant for patios with vibrant foliageFoundation planting for architectural interest

Companion Plants

Azaleas Japanese Maples Ferns Hostas Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

'Gibraltar' Azalea questions

What zones can 'Gibraltar' Azalea grow in?

'Gibraltar' Azalea is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is 'Gibraltar' Azalea deer resistant?

Yes — 'Gibraltar' Azalea is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does 'Gibraltar' Azalea bloom?

'Gibraltar' Azalea typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does 'Gibraltar' Azalea need full sun?

'Gibraltar' Azalea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.