Rhododendron arborescens (Sweet Azalea)

Noted for its strongly-scented flowers and attractive fall foliage, Rhododendron arborescens, commonly known as Sweet Azalea or Smooth Azalea, is a very appealing native to eastern North America. This large, deciduous shrub bears funnel-shaped, white flowers up to 2 in. wide (5 cm), often tinged pink, with protruding red stamens that extend elegantly beyond the petals. Held in small clusters of 3-7 flowers, they bloom profusely in early to midsummer and exude a strong perfume of heliotrope. The foliage of elliptic, glossy green leaves turns deep red to purple in fall for a memorable display. Cold hardy, this late season Azalea can withstand temperatures as low as -15°F ( -26°C). A wonderful landscape plant, Sweet Azalea is prized for its late, showy white flowers with their red stamens and stigma and their marvelous fragrance.

• Maybe the tallest and fastest growing of the US native Azaleas, Sweet Azalea grows up to 5-6 ft. tall and wide (150-180 cm).
• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• Sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, acidic, humusy, well-drained soils. Plant shallowly in a location protected from strong winter winds. Protect from frost to prevent damage to flowers. Mulch annually with leaf mold to retain moisture, control weeds, and cool the soil.
• Perfect for shrub borders or mixed borders and shade gardens.
• Attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and birds.
• Removing spent flowers promotes new growth.
• All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.