Spring has blossomed.
On Louisiana State University’s campus that means sites of winter-worn, dull green shrubs now boldly display different hues of red, pink, magenta, white and everything in between.
Azaleas are a staple bloom in the Louisiana springtime, often blooming early in the year. While there are over two hundred varieties of azaleas, the most common variety in this state are the Indian azaleas (Rhododendron indicum).
According to the LSU AgCenter, azaleas are native to Japan. Azalea bushes grow an average of 6 feet by 6 feet, but certain varieties can grow as tall and wide as 10 feet. The individual flowers range from 2 to 3.5 inches across.
There is plenty to love about azaleas whether you want to sit outside, enjoy the dawn of a new season and nice weather with a backdrop of beautiful blooms or curate your own collection of colorful plants.
Depending on which variety or color of azalea you want to see, there are several spots around LSU’s campus to enjoy the blooms.
The George L. Tabor azaleas grow in nearly every corner of the Quad, easily spotted with their soft pink petal color with hot pink details cascading from the center outward. There is also a tall growth of these right outside the Union, near the Life Sciences building.
Mixed in the bushes of the Quad with the pink variety is a solid white azalea with rounder petals. These are called the Mrs. G. G. Gerbing azalea.
One of the most popular azaleas is the Formosa variety, a smaller magenta flower that brightens up any area it grows. Next time you are walking around the perimeter of the Quad, see if you can spot these vibrant flowers. Small patches of these also grow outside the Union, near the bus stop.
Whether it is on your walk between classes or a relaxing afternoon in the sun, take some time this spring to notice and enjoy the natural beauty of the flora on LSU’s campus.
If you are itching to get your green thumb on some azaleas, most local flower or gardening shops will sell azaleas at this time of the year. For information on planting and care for azaleas, check out the LSU AgCenter’s guide to azaleas here.
