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(Rhododendron luteum)
Pontic Azalea (Rhododendron luteum)
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Holger Hachmann, Baumschule Hachmann
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Holger Hachmann, Baumschule Hachmann
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Photo by: Holger Hachmann, Baumschule Hachmann | License Type: GFDL | License URL: http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html | Uploader: File Upload Bot (Magnus Manske) | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Hachmann_Rhod_Goldtopas.jpg | Notes: |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Rhododendron luteum, commonly known as Pontic Azalea, is a deciduous shrub native to the deciduous woodlands and forest edges of Southern and Eastern Europe, particularly in areas with moist, acidic soils. It typically grows to a height and width of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters). This species is renowned for its vibrant yellow flowers that can sometimes have a reddish tint, which bloom in late spring. The flowers, measuring 3–4 cm in diameter, are arranged in showy trusses of 5-25 and emit a strong, sweet fragrance. However, the plant’s nectar contains grayanotoxin, making it toxic. The fruit is a dry capsule 15–25 mm long, filled with numerous small seeds.
Pontic Azalea is valued for its bright, fragrant flowers and is often used in woodland gardens, shrub borders, and as a specimen plant. It is also a popular choice for rhododendron enthusiasts due to its unique flower color and fragrance. This azalea requires acidic soil with good drainage and thrives in part shade, although it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It needs consistent moisture but is relatively low maintenance once established. Gardeners should be aware of its toxic nectar, which can be harmful to bees and other pollinators, and the potential for honey poisoning if bees access the flowers. Despite this, it is not commonly associated with significant diseases or pests.CC BY-SA 4.0
Pontic Azalea is valued for its bright, fragrant flowers and is often used in woodland gardens, shrub borders, and as a specimen plant. It is also a popular choice for rhododendron enthusiasts due to its unique flower color and fragrance. This azalea requires acidic soil with good drainage and thrives in part shade, although it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It needs consistent moisture but is relatively low maintenance once established. Gardeners should be aware of its toxic nectar, which can be harmful to bees and other pollinators, and the potential for honey poisoning if bees access the flowers. Despite this, it is not commonly associated with significant diseases or pests.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 4-5 feet
- Width: 4-5 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Slow, Medium
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Deciduous woodlands and forest edges with moist, acidic soils
Other Names
Common Names: Yellow Azalea, Honeysuckle Azalea, Pontische Alpenrose, Pontische Azalea, Guldazalea
Scientific Names: , Rhododendron luteum, Rhododendron flavum, Anthodendron flavum, Rhododendron indicum var. luteum,
GBIF Accepted Name: Rhododendron luteum Sweet