Azaleas are popular, colorful flowering shrubs, actually a type of Rhododendron, known for their vibrant, trumpet-shaped blooms (white, pink, red, purple, yellow) in spring, preferring moist, acidic, well-drained soil and dappled shade, offering evergreen or deciduous varieties in various sizes and growth habits, perfect for hedges, borders, or containers, but require consistent watering and can be poisonous if ingested. 
Key Characteristics
Family: Part of the Rhododendron genus; all azaleas are rhododendrons, but not all rhododendrons are azaleas.
Flowers: Tubular or funnel-shaped, often in clusters, with multiple colors (white, pink, red, purple, orange, yellow).
Leaves: Generally smaller and thinner than other rhododendrons; can be evergreen or deciduous (lose leaves in fall).
Stamens: Typically have 5 stamens per flower, distinguishing them from other rhododendrons.
Size: Varies greatly, from groundcovers under a foot to large shrubs over 15 feet, in upright, spreading, or weeping forms. 
Growing Conditions
Sun: Dappled shade or morning sun; afternoon sun can scorch leaves.
Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic soil is essential; amend clay soil with organic matter.
Water: Water regularly, especially when establishing and in containers, but avoid waterlogging.