How to Grow Golden Lights Azalea - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team / 2025

Golden lights azalea is a beautiful plant that is perfect for adding a touch of class to any garden. It is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to six feet tall and produces stunning white flowers that have a yellow hue. The plant is hardy and can withstand harsh conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in colder climates.

How to Grow Golden Lights Azalea - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

Rhododendron luteum
Miltonia lutea
Magnolia lutea
Illicium luteum
Rhododendron xanthophylum

Basic info

The golden lights azalea is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan.
It typically grows to be about 6-8 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide.
The leaves of the golden lights azalea are oblong shaped and have a toothed margin. They are a deep green color on top with a paler green color on the bottom.
The flowers of the golden lights azalea are white and have yellow centers. They typically bloom in the springtime.
The golden lights azalea is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and yards.
It prefers to grow in moist, well-drained soils and is tolerant of some shade.
It is important to water the golden lights azalea regularly, especially during periods of drought.
The golden lights azalea is susceptible to damage from aphids, scale insects, and Japanese beetles.
It is also susceptible to several diseases, including powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot.
The golden lights azalea can be propagated by rooting stem cuttings or by layering.

Related plant:
Golden Duranta

How to Grow

For golden lights azalea, first step is to choose a planting location. This plant prefers acidic, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade.
The second step is to clear the planting area of all grass and weeds.
Next, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plants root ball.
Place the plant in the hole and fill in with soil, tamping down lightly as you go.
Water the plant deeply immediately after planting.
To encourage new growth, fertilize golden lights azalea every 6-8 weeks during the growing season using an acidic fertilizer.
Prune golden lights azalea in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Most varieties of this plant are deer resistant; however, they may still be browsed upon if other food sources are scarce.
To further discourage deer, consider planting golden lights azalea in an area that is not easily accessible to them.
Finally, enjoy the beautiful blooms of your golden lights azalea!

Related plant:
Golden Privet Hedge

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, Golden Lights Azalea requires well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5 for optimal growth. This plant is quite tolerant of various soil types, but will not grow well in heavy clay or poorly-drained sites. A thick layer of mulch will help keep the roots cool and moist in summer.

Light requirement

Like the other types of azaleas, the golden lights azalea requires full sun to partial shade in order to thrive. This means that it should be placed in an area of your garden that receives at least four to six hours of direct sunlight each day. If you live in an area with very hot summers, it's best to provide some afternoon shade for this plant to prevent leaf scorch.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition is perfect for the growth of the golden lights azalea. They require a minimum temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit to grow and thrive. The plants can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they prefer a moderate climate. They will also need some humidity to remain healthy, so be sure to keep an eye on the moisture levels in your home.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 60-70%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off.

Fertilizer Requirement

About fertilizer, this kind of plant need acidic fertilizer, such as Miracle-Gro Azalea, Camellia & Rhododendron Plant Food ? For the root, it's necessary to plant it in well-drained, sandy soil. If the drainage is not good, the plant may fall victim to root rot.

About light

Pruning is an important part of caring for your golden lights azalea. By pruning, you can encourage new growth and help maintain the shape of the plant. To prune, first, remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems. Next, cut back any long or wayward stems. Finally, shape the plant how you desire.

About Propagating

Propagation of golden lights azalea is best done through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from new growth that is approximately 6 inches long. Cuttings should be taken in the morning and placed in a moistened propagating mix. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the cutting in a bright, indirect light location. Keep the soil moist but not wet. Cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by how much water and sunlight the plant gets. If the plant gets too much water, it will start to grow faster. If the plant doesn't get enough water, it will start to grow slower.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are root rot, rust, and wilt. Root rot can be caused by too much water or poorly drained soil. Rust is a fungal disease that can be controlled with fungicides. Wilt is a viral disease that can be controlled with insecticides.

Growing Tips

Do not forget to water your plant regularly. Azaleas need moist, well-drained soil to thrive.
Apply a slow-release fertilizer to your plant every two to four weeks.
Place your plant in an area that receives partial sun to full shade.
Prune your plant regularly to encourage new growth and maintain its shape.
Plan to repot your plant every two to three years.
Be on the lookout for pests and diseases. Common problems include aphids, scale, and root rot.
Keep an eye on the leaves of your plant. Yellowing leaves can indicate a nutrient deficiency.
Once your plant blooms, deadhead the flowers to encourage more blooms.
When the weather cools down in the fall, move your plant indoors.
Enjoy the beauty of your azalea plant all year round!