Azalea plant named Ardent

#The present invention comprises a new and distinct cultivar of Azalea plant named Ardent obtained from crossing certain Azalea selections in a program of controlled hybridization by applicant in Lacey, Wash. The seed parent in the breeding program was identified by Code #2233, and the pollen parent by Code #1040.

#The new cultivar is similar in many respects to the cultivar Solitaire, disclosed in U.S. Plant Pat. No. 3,171, having the same characteristics as Solitaire of:

#1. Similar flowering time.

#The accompanying photograph shows in perspective view the unique features of the new cultivar, with colors being as true as possible with color illustrations of this type. Color references are to The Royal Horticultural Society Colour Chart. Where a particular color value is not precise, variations from the closest color value have been noted.

#Botanical classification: Rhododendron hybrida, evergreen type.

#Flower:

#Color.--Reading location and season: All color readings were taken in an office having cool white florescent fixtures and facing a west window. All readings were taken in October in Fort Myers, Fla. between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. General tonality: Hot pink 68A. Sepals first divide: Darker than dark hot pink 63B. Petals unfurl: Darker than dark hot pink 67C. Fully open: Hot pink 68A. Inside of petals: Hot pink 68A. Reverse of petals: Hot pink 73D. Base of petals: Light pink 62D. Outer hose: Hot pink 68A. Base of outer hose: Light pink 62D. Variations (dotted): Appear on 3 petals per whorl (hose); color, purple red 57B.