The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Mandarin Lights azalea

Family: Ericaceae (heath family)

Distribution: hybrid: Northern Lights series

Hardiness: USDA Zone 3

Life form: Deciduous shrub/Subshrub

Comments: A very hardy, brightly flowering shrub blooming in April with clusters of ruffled red-orange blossoms before the leaves. Flowers are attractive to butterflies. From University of Minnesota, this selection is hardy to -30 F. Grows 4-5' tall and wide and upright habit. Fall color is an attractive bronze. Works in the landscape as a specimen, in the shrub border or foundation.