Azalea 'Arneson Ruby'

arneson Ruby Azalea

Azalea ‘Arneson Ruby’ is a deciduous flowering shrub selected for rich ruby-red blossoms that often appear before the new leaves unfold in spring, making a bold splash of color in the landscape. It was developed by the Arneson hybridizers of Oregon, known for bright, saturated colors in deciduous azaleas.

📏 Size & Habit


Height: ~4–5 ft (1.2–1.5 m) at maturity.



Spread: ~3–4 ft (0.9–1.2 m).



Upright, somewhat clump-forming habit.



🌸 Flower & Foliage


Flowers: Deep ruby-red, wavy-edged blooms in abundant clusters in spring.



Often considered among the reddest of azalea cultivars.



Foliage: Deciduous green leaves that emerge after blooming.



🌞 Growing Conditions


USDA Hardiness Zones: Typically hardy in Zones ~5a–9b (some sources list down to Zone 4).



Light: Prefers partial shade to filtered sun; tolerates more sun with adequate moisture.



Soil: Acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.



Moisture: Likes even moisture but good drainage; avoid soggy soils.



🌿 Landscape Uses


Excellent in mixed shrub borders, woodland gardens, and pollinator-friendly plantings (attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds).



Works well as a specimen plant or grouped with other azaleas for spring impact.



🌱 Care Tips


Mulch: Apply organic mulch (like pine bark or needles) to conserve moisture and maintain acidic conditions.



Fertilizer: Use an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring and possibly again after bloom.



Pruning: Prune only after flowering to avoid cutting off next year’s buds.



Winter: In colder climates, provide some protection from harsh winds or frost when young.



📍 Summary
Azalea ‘Arneson Ruby’ is a standout deciduous azalea prized for its intense red flowers, moderate size, and versatility in the garden. It suits acidic, well-drained soils and performs best with some dappled to partial sun and consistent moisture. 

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Shrub

Height

3'

Width

2-3'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring, Summer

Flower color

Red

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Container, Erosion Control

Shape

Broad Upright

Bark

Smooth

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No