Pink Azalea

(Rhododendron periclymenoides)

Pink Azalea (Rhododendron periclymenoides)

Judy Gallagher

CC BY-SA 4.0

Image By: Judy Gallagher

Recorded By:

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Rhododendron periclymenoides, commonly known as Pink Azalea, is a deciduous shrub native to moist, acidic soils in the understory of mixed deciduous forests, often found along stream banks and in moist, hilly areas in the Eastern United States. It typically grows to about 9 feet (2.7 meters) tall with a similar spread. The Pink Azalea is celebrated for its clusters of fragrant, funnel-shaped, pink flowers that bloom in the spring, providing a showy display that attracts pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds. The plant’s leaves are a lustrous green during the growing season, turning to attractive shades of yellow to red in the fall.

Pink Azalea is valued in horticulture for its beautiful spring flowers and fall foliage. It is commonly used as a foundation plant, in shrub borders, and in woodland gardens. It is also a favored choice for native plant gardens and habitat restoration projects. This species can be propagated from both seeds and cuttings, offering flexibility for gardeners. While it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, in hotter areas it benefits from part shade to prevent leaf scorch. It requires acidic, well-drained soil and does not tolerate heavy clay unless amended or planted in raised beds to improve drainage. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, a common issue with Rhododendrons. It is also susceptible to pests such as lace bugs and Rhododendron borers, as well as diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Shrub
Height: 3-10 feet
Width: 3-6 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: Pink, White
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium, High
Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Moist, acidic soils in the understory of mixed deciduous forests, often found along stream banks and in moist, hilly areas

Other Names

Common Names: Pinxterbloom Azalea, Election-Pink, Pinxter-Flower, Pinxterflower, Wild-Honeysuckle, Wild Azalea, Kaprifolazalea

Scientific Names: , Rhododendron periclymenoides, Rhododendron nudiflorum, Azalea nudiflora, Azalea periclymenoides, Rhododendron nudiflorum var. glandiferum, Azalea nudiflora f. alba, Azalea nudiflora f. glandifera, Azalea nudiflora var. alba, Azalea nudiflora var. carnea

GBIF Accepted Name: Rhododendron periclymenoides (Michx.) Shinners