Flame Azalea

(Rhododendron calendulaceum)

Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Rhododendron calendulaceum image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Rhododendron calendulaceum, commonly known as Flame Azalea, is a deciduous shrub native to the open woodlands and forest edges of the Appalachian Mountains in the Eastern United States. It can grow to a height of 120–450 cm (4–15 feet) with a similar spread. The leaves of Flame Azalea are simple, 3–7 cm long, with a slightly dull green coloration on the upper surface and a villous texture beneath. The plant is renowned for its showy flowers, which are 4–5 cm long and typically bright orange, although color variations can range from pastel orange to dark reddish-orange. These non-fragrant flowers have 4-5 lobes and grow in clusters of 5–10, blooming profusely in late May and early June.

Flame Azalea is celebrated for its vibrant flowers that add a splash of color to woodland gardens and shaded borders. It is often used in native plant gardens and as an understory plant in larger landscapes. This azalea requires acidic, well-drained soils and benefits from mulching to keep the roots cool and moist. While it prefers part shade, it can tolerate morning sun with adequate moisture. Flame Azalea is relatively low maintenance but can be susceptible to pests like lace bugs and azalea caterpillars, as well as diseases such as root rot if drainage is poor. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant invasiveness, but gardeners should be aware of its susceptibility to pests and diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 4-8 feet
  • Width: 8-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Orange, Pink, Red, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands and forest edges in the Appalachian Mountains

Other Names

Common Names: Orangeazalea

Scientific Names: Rhododendron calendulaceum , Azalea calendulacea , Rhododendron calendulaceum f. aurantium , Azalea aurantiaca , Azalea calendulacea var. crocea , Azalea calendulaceum var. crocea , Azalea crocea , Azalea flava , Azalea jammea , Azalea morteri

GBIF Accepted Name: Rhododendron calendulaceum (Michx.) Torr.