Northern Hi-Lights Azalea

‘Northern Hi-Lights’ is a deciduous azalea from the University of Minnesota’s cold-hardy Lights breeding program. It bears creamy-white flowers with a bright yellow upper petal and develops burgundy-toned fall foliage, bringing spring color and autumn contrast to northern shrub plantings. ## Identity and features The [University of Minnesota](https://mnhardy.umn.edu/azaleas) lists Northern Hi-Lights as a 1994 release, with creamy-white flowers, a bright yellow upper petal, and a typical plant size of 5–6 ft. [Bailey Nurseries](https://shop.baileynurseries.com/Product/Detail/0698) identifies the cultivar as *Rhododendron* ‘Northern Hi-Lights’, and reports deep-green foliage, burgundy-purple fall color, a rounded upright form, and a 4–5 ft height with 5 ft spread. Its creamy-white flowers stand out against green leaves, and the burgundy fall color adds a second season of interest. ## Placement Use as a flowering shrub in a mixed border or woodland edge where the autumn foliage can be seen. The breeder developed the Lights series for northern climates; this cultivar is listed for USDA zones 4–7. Azaleas generally prefer acidic, organic-rich soil that remains evenly moist but drains freely. A filtered-light or part-shade position is useful in warmer areas, though this cultivar can be grown in sun in cooler climates. ## Maintenance Keep an organic mulch over the shallow root zone and check soil moisture through dry spells. Water thoroughly when the soil begins to dry, without allowing roots to remain saturated. If shaping is needed, prune shortly after flowering; spring-flowering azaleas form next year’s buds during summer, so late-season pruning can reduce the following display.