Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

11 other cultivars

shrub

Bollywood Azalea

Rhododendron x hybrida 'Bollywood'

The Story

Plant Bio

Rhododendron 'Bollywood' is a stunning hybrid known for its striking pink blooms and glossy green foliage.

This reblooming azalea is noted for its abundant flowering in spring and again in late summer/fall. Its foliage is variegated with a bright green center and creamy-white margin.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery with vibrant spring blooms, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Acts as a natural privacy screen or hedge in landscape designs.

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

Garden hybrid

Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

10-20 years

Native To

Cultivated hybrid

Toxicity

All parts are highly toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a well-draining, acidic soil with plenty of organic matter.
Tuck seeds or cuttings in early spring for best results.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
Place in partial shade to protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Pro Tip

Use ericaceous compost and avoid overwatering for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Tuck seeds in well-drained acidic soil 🌱
Mist cuttings regularly to promote root development 🌱
Fertilize with acid-loving plant fertilizer in spring and summer 🌱
Prune after flowering to shape the shrub 🌱
Mulch around the base to retain moisture 🌱

Don't

Don’t plant in alkaline soil ❌
Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Never prune in late fall or winter ❌
Don’t expose to scorching afternoon sun ❌
Avoid heavy fertilizing in late fall ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge with dark green foliageColorful border with vibrant spring bloomsShade garden accent with textured leaves

Companion Plants

Azaleas PierisHostas Ferns Japanese Maple

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bollywood Azalea questions

What zones can Bollywood Azalea grow in?

Bollywood Azalea is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Bollywood Azalea deer resistant?

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

When does Bollywood Azalea bloom?

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

Does Bollywood Azalea need full sun?

Bollywood Azalea does best in part shade.