Karen Azalea

Karen is a Gable hybrid azalea with lavender to purplish-pink spring flowers and foliage that turns burgundy in fall. Monrovia identifies it as *Azalea* × ‘Karen’ and places it in USDA zones 4–9, with a mature size around 2–4 ft tall and 3–5 ft wide. ## Flowers and foliage The [Monrovia cultivar profile](https://www.monrovia.com/karen-azalea.html) describes lavender-purple hose-in-hose flowers and burgundy fall color, and identifies the plant as a Gable hybrid. [Campbell’s Nursery](https://www.campbellsnursery.com/product/landscape-plants/trees/evergreens/azalea-karen/) also records spring flowers, a May bloom time, and a 48-inch height by 60-inch width. The published color descriptions range from lavender-purple to lavender-pink, giving the spring flowers a soft, variable appearance. ## Placement Grow in filtered or partial sun, in acidic, humus-rich soil that stays evenly moist but drains well. Its listed 2–4 ft shrub height suits foundation plantings and mixed borders. Karen works in a foundation planting, border, or grouped shrub bed where its flowering period and fall color are visible. In colder climates, leaf retention can vary with exposure and winter severity. ## Maintenance Water regularly during establishment, then water as needed to keep the root zone evenly moist. Apply organic mulch to cool the shallow roots and conserve moisture. Feed with an acid-forming fertilizer after bloom only when needed, following the product directions. Prune after flowering if shaping is necessary, and avoid late-summer pruning that can remove next year’s flower buds.