If you are looking for versatile, beautiful shrubs for your Ohio garden consider selecting azaleas.  Members of the rhododendron family, azaleas are well-known for their lovely, long-lasting flowers.  Many varieties and colors are available to select from, some which are deciduous and some which are evergreen.  Azaleas prefer moist but well-drained amended soil.  They should be planted in an area where there is no morning sun though a bit of afternoon sun is acceptable, and they will perform best in an area where they will be protected from cold winter winds.  When you consider selecting azaleas for your Ohio landscape, be sure to confirm that the variety you choose is hardy in your USDA hardiness zone.  If you are looking for a versatile shrub that has stunning flowers, consider selecting one of the many varieties of azaleas that are available at an Ohio lawn and garden center near you.

An example of a deciduous azalea you might want to consider planting in your Ohio garden is Flame Azalea (Rhododendron azalea calendulaceum).   The Flame Azalea has clusters of spring flowers that are red, orange, pink or yellow.  The foliage is deep green in the summer and turns from yellow to red in fall.    It grows 4 to 8 feet tall and from 10 to 15 feet wide. 

Dwarf Red Hardy Azalea (Rhododendron x 'Hinode-giri', 'Mist of the Morning Sun') is a broadleaf evergreen azalea that features crimson-rose flowers that bloom in early spring.  Its foliage turns bright red in fall and remains red throughout the winter months, making it an excellent choice to brighten up your Ohio garden.  It grows 2 to 3 feet tall and from 2 to 3 feet wide.

For detailed information on how to select and care for azaleas and rhododendrons in Ohio, please click here to visit the Ohio State University Extension Service web site.