Azalea 'Hardy Gardenia'(Linwood Hardy Group)

Evergreen Azalea

A much-loved evergreen azalea prized for its large, fully double white flowers that closely resemble gardenias. ‘Hardy Gardenia’ combines a lush, formal bloom style with reliable cold tolerance, making it a standout choice for spring elegance in the landscape.

Key features



Width: 4–6 ft



Height: 4–6 ft



Flower color: Pure white (fully double, gardenia-like)



Bloom time: Mid to late spring



Foliage: Dark green, evergreen leaves



Form: Dense, rounded mound



Life cycle: Evergreen shrub



Growing conditions



Sun: Part shade (morning sun, afternoon shade preferred)



Soil: Acidic, moist, well-drained; rich in organic matter



Water: Moderate; consistent moisture preferred



Hardiness: USDA Zones 6–9



Landscape use



Foundation plantings



Woodland and shade gardens



Evergreen mass plantings



Specimen shrub for spring display



Containers in protected locations



Notes



One of the best double white azaleas available



Generally deer resistant



Mulch to keep roots cool and evenly moist



Avoid hot afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch



Prune immediately after flowering if shaping is needed

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen, Flowering Shrub

Height

4-6'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

6–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Late Spring, Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Loamy well-drained, Normal, Sandy well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Container, Foundation, Mass Planting

Shape

Low Mounding

Bark

Smooth

Drought tolerant

No