Wildlife value of Azalea — an unexpected bonus

I planted Azalea primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. wide range from ground-covering species to large specimens seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a wildlife garden with berrying and nectaring shrubs which allows me to watch the activity up close. winter bark and evergreen foliage interest is the most active period for wildlife visits. deadheading where appropriate to extend the flowering season is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. leggy and open growth habit from insufficient light is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.