Azalea ‘Klondyke’

Azalea ‘Klondyke’: Gilded Fire in Spring

Striking and sophisticated, ‘Klondyke’ lights up the spring garden with glowing golden-orange blooms that open in generous clusters just before the foliage fully emerges. Each trumpet-shaped flower is lightly scented, and the vivid colour glows even in dappled shade. As the season progresses, the bronze-tinted new growth matures into deep green foliage, turning rich red and copper in the fall. Upright and well-branched, this deciduous azalea is a long-time favourite for bold spring presence and autumn interest.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 120–150 cm (4–5 ft)
• Spread: 90–120 cm (3–4 ft)
• Flower Colour: Golden-orange
• Flowering Period: Mid to late spring
• Foliage: Green with bronze spring growth; red to copper in fall
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, acidic, well-drained, rich in organic matter

Uses and Benefits: A bold addition to mixed borders, woodland gardens, or as a feature shrub. ‘Klondyke’ excels when massed along partially shaded edges or in acidic beds with rhododendrons and other ericaceous plants. Its vibrant spring display is a beacon for pollinators, while the fall foliage ensures continued visual interest well into the season.

Care Instructions: Prefers evenly moist, acidic soil rich in compost or peat. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots. Water during dry spells, especially in summer. Prune lightly after flowering to shape, avoiding late-season pruning that may remove flower buds. Best flowering occurs with at least a few hours of sun daily.

History: ‘Klondyke’ is a distinguished member of the Knaphill-Exbury hybrid group, developed in England in the early 20th century for enhanced hardiness and floral impact. Its combination of warm-toned flowers and seasonal foliage colour has made it a reliable classic in northern gardens.

Final Thoughts: Radiant in bloom and rich in form, ‘Klondyke’ is a tried-and-true spring performer that also delivers in fall. It brings a sense of drama and elegance to every season—an enduring gem for temperate landscapes.