The ‘Lights’ series of deciduous azaleas are introductions from the University of Minnesota. They are known for their flower bud hardiness and incredible floral displays in May in Iowa. Like most deciduous azaleas, they bloom before the leaves fully emerge. Flower buds withstand at least -30°F temperatures during the winter. This makes them reliable spring bloomers across the Upper Midwest.
Since the 1980’s there have been several introductions of Lights azaleas. There is a wide range of flower colors and heights available.
Lights Series Azaleas for Midwest Gardens
| Cultivar Name | Height (feet) | Flower Color | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Candy Lights | 5-6 | Light pink w/yellow streaks | Fragrant flowers |
| Electric Lights Double Pink | 6 | Double flowers; pink | Bud hardy to -30°F |
| Electric Lights Red | 4 | Cardinal red | Bud hardy to -30°F |
| Golden Lights | 4-6 | Peachy yellow | Fragrant flowers |
| Lemon Lights | 5-6 | Primrose yellow | Narrow, upright habit |
| Lilac Lights | 3-5 | Pinkish purple | |
| Mandarin Lights | 5-7 | Bright orange | Extremely hardy |
| Northern Hi-Lights | 5-6 | White with yellow petal | |
| Northern Lights | 4-7 | pink | Fragrant flowers |
| Orchid Lights | 2-3 | Orchid pink/purple | Early flowers; extremely hardy |
| Rosy Lights | 4-6 | Rosy pink | Fragrant flowers; extremely hardy |
| Spicy Lights | 5-7 | Salmon pink | |
| Tri Lights | 5 | Light pink w/yellow highlight | |
| White Lights | 5-6 | White w/yellow highlight |
Care
Plants prefer partial sun, but can perform well in full sun, especially when protected from the hot, afternoon sun. At least 4-6 hours of direct light per day ensures good bloom.
They require and well-drained soils and don't require low soil pH like other members of the Rhododendron genus. Most perform well in the pH levels typical to Iowa and the upper Midwest.
Plants are relatively shallow-rooted so they benefit from a layer of mulch and consistent moisture (just not wet).
After planting protect plants over winter from rabbit damage.
