Rhododendron  'Midnight Flare'
shrub

Midnight Flare Evergreen Azalea

Rhododendron 'Midnight Flare'

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Hybrid (parentage from Japan)

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Evergreen azaleas are a diverse group of Rhododendrons known for their spectacular spring flower displays and for retaining their leaves through winter. They are essential shrubs for acidic soil gardens. 'Midnight Flare' is a Satsuki hybrid azalea renowned for its large, single, velvety, true-red flowers that create a dramatic display. The dark green foliage provides a perfect backdrop for the intense blooms.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides a spectacular, high-impact floral display in mid-spring with its large, intensely colored red flowers. The dark evergreen foliage adds texture and structure to the garden throughout the year.
Practical UsesIts moderate size makes it ideal for foundation plantings, massing on slopes, or as a key specimen in mixed borders. It can be used to define garden rooms or line pathways.
Ecological BenefitsThe vibrant flowers attract early season pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds, providing them with a valuable nectar source.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a site with well-drained, humus-rich, acidic soil.
  2. Dig a hole that is shallow but twice as wide as the root ball.
  3. Amend the native soil with compost or pine bark fines.
  4. Set the plant so the top of its root ball is slightly above the soil line.
  5. Backfill around the root ball and water in well.
  6. Apply a generous layer of acidic mulch like pine needles.

Pro Tip

Planting in a spot with dappled sunlight all day is ideal, as it provides enough light for blooms without scorching the foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide consistent water, especially during hot, dry weather.
  • Test soil pH and amend if necessary to keep it acidic (5.0-6.0).
  • Mulch to protect the shallow root system.
  • Site the plant where it gets protection from harsh afternoon sun.

Don't

  • Do not plant too deep; this is a common cause of failure.
  • Avoid using general-purpose fertilizers; use one for acid-loving plants.
  • Don't allow the plant to dry out completely.
  • Do not prune after early summer, or you will sacrifice next year's flowers.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bold color accent in mixed bordersStunning foundation plantingSpecimen for woodland gardens

Companion Plants

Kalmia latifolia Pieris japonica Hosta Ferns (various) Acer palmatum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Midnight Flare Evergreen Azalea questions

What zones can Midnight Flare Evergreen Azalea grow in?

Midnight Flare Evergreen 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 Midnight Flare Evergreen Azalea deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Midnight Flare Evergreen Azalea, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Midnight Flare Evergreen Azalea bloom?

Midnight Flare Evergreen 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 Midnight Flare Evergreen Azalea need full sun?

Midnight Flare Evergreen Azalea does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Midnight Flare Evergreen Azalea with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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