Rhododendron canescens (Mountain Azalea)

The most common native azalea in the Southeast, Rhododendron canescens (Mountain Azalea) is a large deciduous shrub boasting fragrant, funnel-shaped, pink (rarely white) flowers, up to 2 in. long (5 cm), with protruding pistil and stamens that extend elegantly beyond the petals. Held in small clusters of 5-9 flowers, they bloom profusely in early to late spring and exude a delicate fragrance. The blossoms usually appear before the foliage of elliptic, velvety, dull green leaves. A wonderful landscape plant for the moist to very dry acidic, woodland garden or mixed border, Mountain Azalea looks great planted in masses or used as a specimen.

• Grows up to 6-8 ft. tall (180-240 cm) and 6-12 ft. wide (180-360 cm). Give this azalea plenty of room, as it tends to form large colonies.
• A 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, shade gardens, water gardens, bog gardens, or pond areas.
• 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.
• Native to the eastern United States.