PLANT INFORMATION
Plant Size: 3 Gallon
Name: Flame Azelea – Rhododendron calendulaceum
Type: Perennial Shrub
Flame azalea is an upright, woody, deciduous shrub in the Ericaceae (blueberry) family that typically matures to 4 to 8 feet tall (infrequently to 10 to 15 feet tall) and 8 to 10 feet wide. It is native primarily to woodland slopes and mountain balds in the Appalachian Mountains from Pennsylvania to Georgia.
Plant flame azalea in full sun to partial or deep shade with moist, well-drained, acidic, loamy, or sandy soil. It does not tolerate dense clay, so amend with organic material if necessary. Protect from the afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. Rabbit browsing is tolerated well. Prune rhododendrons and azaleas after they bloom to preserve the current season’s bloom, and allow time for the plant to produce flower buds for next year’s bloom.
The fiery red orange nectar rich flowers appear from late spring to mid-summer and attract pollinators. The thin, gray-brown bark is showy and adds winter interest in the garden with its finely shredded appearance.
Light Requirement: Part Shade
Soil Moisture: Moist
Soil pH: Acidic (pH<6.8)
Soil Description: Well-drained soil
