Single plant selection originating from a hybrid Mollis azalea seedling population. This selection was grown and outplanted in Fargo, ND in the early 1970’s. It has performed admirably for over 40 years of evaluation. This NDSU deciduous hybrid azalea cultivar has proven to be adaptable and winterhardy. Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 3b-8 Mature Size: Height: 4', Spread: 5' Form (Shape): Dense, compact semi-dwarf shrub Growth Rate: Moderate Foliage: Deciduous Summer: Medium green Autumn: Yellow-orange to reddish purple Texture: Medium Flower: Flowers are a very showy brilliant fire-orange. Flower clusters average 3 – 7 florets per bud with each flower being on average 2.5 inches in width. Fruit: Not ornamentally significant (dehiscent capsule) Special Features: Winter hardy soil pH tolerant selection Light Preference: Full sun to part shade (up to 50%) Soil Preference: Prefers moist well-drained soil Propagation: Stem cuttings and tissue culture Ornamental Attributes: Fireflare Orange® Mollis azalea blooms are truly an eye-stopper with the brilliant fire-orange color Landscape Attributes: This selection is pH tolerant with no exhibition of chlorosis symptoms in alkaline pH soils Comments: This is a great addition to the landscape of a hardy soil tolerant flowering azalea Patent Status:
Availability: Limited quantities available starting in 2026!