Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea

Rhododendron x 'Girard's Renee Michelle'

Nature Hills Nursery

Burgundy Winter Foliage Transforms this Evergreen Azalea into a Four-season Showstopper
Thrives in Zones 5-8
Grows 3-4 ft Tall, 4-5 ft Wide
Showy Pink Blooms in Late Spring
Perfect for Border or Small groups

$80⁷⁵

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Plant Size

#3 Container

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Provide four to six hours of direct morning sun for the best bloom production and vibrant pink color. Filtered light or afternoon shade is essential to prevent the delicate evergreen foliage from scorching during the hottest part of the day.
Soil: These azaleas thrive in rich, acidic soil that stays moist but never soggy. If you have heavy clay, plant in a raised mound or incorporate organic compost to ensure the roots can breathe and drain properly.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, keep the root ball consistently moist by watering two to three times a week. Once established, the Renee Michelle is relatively resilient, but inconsistent watering during the hot summer months will cause the plant to drop flower buds, resulting in a poor show the following spring.

Pruning Tips

This azalea blooms on old wood, meaning it sets its flower buds for next year shortly after it finishes flowering this year. Perform any shaping or "haircuts" immediately after the blossoms fade in late spring to avoid cutting off next season's display. Removing long, leggy stems encourages the plant to fill out and stay compact and bushy.

Fertilizer Needs

Feed your plant with a dedicated acidic fertilizer in early spring just as new growth begins. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers after mid summer, because this encourages tender new leaves that will not have enough time to toughen up before the first freeze.

Delivery and Shipping

Preorder Shipping Schedule

We ship your plants when it's safe to transport them to your zone. Dates are estimated and subject to weather delays.

Zone 3-4	Week of March 30th
Zone 5	Week of March 16th
Zone 6-12	Week of March 2nd

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea ? A Four-Season Gem

The Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea (Rhododendron x 'Girard's Renee Michelle') is a stunning, compact shrub that brings season-long interest to any garden. In mid to late spring, it bursts into bloom with an abundance of soft pink, trumpet-shaped flowers, each accented with a delicate darker pink throat.

Unlike deciduous Azaleas, this variety keeps its broadleaf evergreen deep green foliage year-round. As cooler weather arrives, the leaves take on rich burgundy tones, adding even more seasonal interest.

With its cold hardiness, manageable size, and striking floral display, Girard's Renee Michelle Azalea is a perfect choice for both classic and modern landscapes throughout USDA planting zones 5 to 8.

Why You'll Love Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea

Soft Pink Blooms ? Beautiful light pink flowers with a darker pink accent create a romantic spring display.
Evergreen Foliage ? Keeps lush green leaves year-round, turning burgundy in fall for extra seasonal interest.
Compact & Manageable Size ? Grows 3-4 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide, ideal for borders, foundations, and small gardens.
Cold Hardy & Resilient ? Thrives in USDA Zones 5-8, making it a great option for cooler climates.
Pollinator-Friendly ? Attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and beneficial insects in the spring.

Where to Plant Girard's Renee Michelle Azalea

This versatile, broadleaf evergreen Azalea enhances a variety of landscapes:

Foundation Plantings ? Adds year-round interest around homes and entryways.
Borders & Shrub Gardens ? A perfect companion to Rhododendrons, Camellias, and Hydrangeas.
Woodland & Shade Gardens ? Thrives in the dappled light under trees, blending beautifully with Ferns and Hostas.
Pollinator & Hummingbird Gardens ? Provides an early nectar source for beneficial wildlife.
Containers & Small Spaces ? Compact habit makes it ideal for patio planters and courtyard gardens.
Mass Plantings & Low Hedges ? Creates a breathtaking seasonal display when planted in groups.

Care & Maintenance

This durable, evergreen shrub thrives with minimal care! Read more on Azalea care in our Garden Blog!

Sunlight: Prefers partial shade to filtered sunlight; tolerates morning sun with afternoon shade.
Soil: Requires acidic, well-draining, moist soil with organic matter.
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
Mulching: Apply a 3-4 inch layer of mulch to maintain soil temperature and moisture.
Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed; lightly shape after flowering to encourage fullness.
Fertilizing: Use an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring to enhance growth and blooms.
Deer & Rabbit Resistant ? Less appealing to browsing wildlife, ensuring reliable growth.
Low Maintenance & Easy to Grow ? Requires little pruning and is disease-resistant.

Enjoy Year-Round Elegance with Girard's Renee Michelle Azalea

With its lush evergreen foliage, soft pink blooms, and seasonal color changes, Girard's Renee Michelle Azalea is a must-have for any garden. Whether you're looking to brighten up shaded spaces, create a low-maintenance border, or add elegance to your foundation plantings, this compact shrub delivers beauty in every season.

Order yours today and enjoy stunning pink blooms and evergreen charm all year long! Now at Nature Hills Online Plant Nursery!

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Growing Zones 5-8

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea truly evergreen, or does it lose its leaves in winter?

Yes, Girard's Renee Michelle is truly evergreen and retains its deep green foliage year-round. As temperatures drop, the leaves transition to rich burgundy tones for added winter interest. This broadleaf evergreen thrives in zones 5-8, providing continuous structure in your landscape even through harsh winters.

What are the sunlight requirements for planting Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea?

Girard's Renee Michelle thrives in partial shade to dappled sunlight, making it perfect for woodland gardens under trees. This cold-hardy azalea (zones 5-8) performs best with morning sun and afternoon protection. Shop at Nature Hills for healthy plants that establish quickly in filtered light conditions.

What type of soil pH and conditions does Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea need?

Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea thrives in acidic, well-draining soil with a pH between 4.5-6.0. Like all azaleas, it prefers moist but not waterlogged conditions with good organic matter. Test your soil pH before planting and amend with sulfur or peat moss if needed to achieve proper acidity.

How often should I water a newly planted Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea?

Water newly planted Girard's Renee Michelle Azaleas deeply 2-3 times per week for the first month. These broadleaf evergreens need consistent moisture to establish their root system. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 2 inches down,water when dry at that depth.

When and how should I prune my Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea?

Prune your Girard's Renee Michelle Azalea immediately after spring blooming ends, typically late May to early June. Light pruning maintains its natural 3-4 foot compact shape. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and lightly shape as needed. Shop at Nature Hills for this low-maintenance beauty.

Does Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea tolerate cold temperatures down to -10°F?

Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, which means it can typically handle temperatures down to -10°F to -20°F depending on your specific zone. This cold-hardy variety thrives in cooler climates while maintaining its evergreen foliage year-round.

What is the shipping size or pot size for Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea when purchased online?

The specific shipping size and pot dimensions aren't listed in the product details provided. Most online nurseries ship azaleas in 1-3 gallon containers, with mature plants reaching 3-4 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide in zones 5-8. Check the product page or contact the nursery directly for exact shipping specifications.

How is Girard's Renee Michelle Evergreen Azalea shipped, and what are the bare root or potted options?

Girard's Renee Michelle Azaleas are typically shipped as potted plants rather than bare root, since evergreen shrubs maintain their foliage year-round. This ensures better transplant success for the broadleaf evergreen. Plant in spring or early fall in zones 5-8 for best establishment.