Azaleas
The time in spring when the azaleas are blooming is without a doubt the most “flowery” time of the year in our area. Almost everyone seems to grow azaleas, and it’s not hard to figure out why. They are easily kept to a reasonable size or they can be allowed to grow to eight or ten feet if desired. They bloom in colors ranging from bright red and pink to various shades of purple as well as pure white. There are deciduous varieties, with orange and yellow flowers. They are reliably hardy and they don’t take a lot of effort. It’s either a shame or a blessing that their flowers don’t have any fragrance to speak of, or the place would reek with them right about now. Count me as a fan.