Flame azalea grows best in full or partial sunlight and needs well-draining, acidic soil.
Like otherazalea species, all parts of the plant are toxic to humans and pets.
Although they prefer partial shade, this shrub can grow in full sun if the heat is moderate.
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Soil
Like other azalea species, flame azalea prefers acidic soil.
Ideally, the soil should be moist but the shrub does exhibit some drought tolerance.
Its important that the soil is well-draining to prevent oversaturation and problems with root rot.
Flame azalea does not grow well in heavy clay soil.
Water when the top two inches of soil feels dry to the touch.
Temperature and Humidity
Flame azalea does best with moderate-to-warm temperatures and average humidity.
In very hot conditions, the shrub will not fare well and very cold temperatures can hinder bud development.
Climate conditions between 60F and 80F during the growing season are best.
Fertilizer
When planted in humusy, acidic soil, flame azalea may not need any fertilizer.
Prune after flowering in the summer.
Neem oil or another commercially available pest spray can be used to treat infestations.
There is no flower fragrance for most flame azalea shrubs, although some varieties might have a light scent.
The flame azalea will bloom for about two weeks.
The shrub reliably blooms each year, assuming its healthy and its basic care requirements are met.
Be careful not to pluck off any buds forming for next years growth.
If you gotta prune your azalea bush, after flowering is the best time to do so.
Take steps to protect the shrub at the onset of the following winter.
Flame azalea is a deciduous shrub, meaning that it will drop its leaves at the onset of winter.
ASPCA.org
Azaleas and Rhododendrons: Identify and Manage Problems.Umd.edu.
