Rhododendron occidentale (Western Azalea)
Western Azalea, Azalea occidentalis, Honeysuckle Azalea, Pacific Azalea, Late Midseason Azalea, Late Season Azalea
Regarded as the largest flowered, scented, white azalea species, Rhododendron occidentale, commonly known as Western Azalea, is a plant of great beauty and captivating fragrance that appeals to virtually everyone who comes upon it. The large floral trusses are visually compelling with their 5 to 25, flaring, trumpet-shaped, sparkling white flowers, sometimes tinged with pink and marked with a bright yellow to orange spot. In late spring to early summer, the air around the flowers can be delightfully scented with a sweet and spicy clove scent reminiscent of cottage pinks and carnations. Equally attractive, the deciduous foliage of glossy, bright green leaves turns eye-catching shades of orange and yellow in fall and till midwinter for a stunning display. This large, spreading and deciduous shrub is native to the western USA (California to S Washington) and is the parent of many cultivars and hybrids, including many of the famous Knap Hill Azaleas.
- Grows up to 6-15 ft. tall and wide (180-450 cm)
- Winner of the Rhododendron of the Year Award of the American Rhododendron Society for the North West and South West regions.
- A part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, acidic, humusy, well-drained soils. Tolerates full sun in cool moist sites, but does poorly in hot, humid conditions. 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, as a flowering hedge or privacy screen, foundation plantings, 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.
Rhododendron and Azalea: How To Grow And Care with Success
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Requirements
Hardiness | 7
– 9 |
---|---|
Heat Zones | 1
– 7 |
Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Shrubs |
Plant Family | Azaleas - Rhododendrons, Rhododendron - Azalea |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Late) Summer (Early) Fall Winter |
Height | 6' – 15' (180cm – 4.5m) |
Spread | 6' – 15' (180cm – 4.5m) |
Spacing | 72" – 144" (180cm – 360cm) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Plant of Merit, Showy |
Native Plants | United States, California, Pacific Northwest, Oregon |
Tolerance | Rabbit |
Attracts | Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden |
Guides with Azaleas - Rhododendrons
Botanik Foto, Hirsutum
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Requirements
Hardiness | 7
– 9 |
---|---|
Heat Zones | 1
– 7 |
Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Shrubs |
Plant Family | Azaleas - Rhododendrons, Rhododendron - Azalea |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Late) Summer (Early) Fall Winter |
Height | 6' – 15' (180cm – 4.5m) |
Spread | 6' – 15' (180cm – 4.5m) |
Spacing | 72" – 144" (180cm – 360cm) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Plant of Merit, Showy |
Native Plants | United States, California, Pacific Northwest, Oregon |
Tolerance | Rabbit |
Attracts | Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden |
Guides with Azaleas - Rhododendrons