Azalea

About this plant

Rhododendron calendulaceum 'Corley's Cardinal' is a deciduous azalea prized for its spectacular floral display. In late spring to early summer, it produces abundant, funnel-shaped flowers in an intensely saturated orange-red hue, often with a subtle golden blotch, creating a breathtaking focal point in any landscape. This robust and upright shrub features bright green foliage that provides a lush backdrop to its brilliant blooms. Its open growth habit allows for good air circulation, and its adaptability makes it a versatile choice for mixed borders, woodland gardens, or as a vibrant specimen plant. Enjoy the captivating beauty and low-maintenance charm of Corley's Cardinal Azalea, a perfect choice for adding dramatic seasonal color and structure to your outdoor living spaces.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Thrives in well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter. Apply a slow-release, acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring. Prune immediately after flowering to shape and remove any spent blooms or dead wood. Protect from strong winds and consider a layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.