With so many fine attributes, where do we start? Unlike most other native azaleas that bloom in early to mid spring, the Millennium Swamp Azalea produces its abundant round clusters of honeysuckle-shaped fragrant flowers in late spring to early summer. While some are calling the flower color red, in our gardens it has red buds that open to deep dusky pink flowers. Each 5-petaled flower reflexes to form an almost perfect star at the end of the trumpet the butterflies and hummingbirds are sure to notice. The flowers contrast beautifully against the backdrop of some of the most attractive deep blue-green foliage we've seen on any native azalea. The handsome leaves have striking silver undersides, are arrow-shaped and thick, and arranged in whorls, which provides a unique look and outstanding contrast and texture in the landscape. An exceptionally hardy and attractive variety of Rhododendron viscosum, Millennium is cold hardy to -20F, which makes it a fine selection for northern gardeners. This one prefers a consistently moist soil, hence the name. One of our favorite native azaleas and we think you'll love it too!