Rhododendron prinophyllum (Roseshell Azalea)

Prized for its delightful fragrance and stunning floral display, Rhododendron prinophyllum (Roseshell Azalea) is a vigorous and showy deciduous Azalea. In mid to late spring, abundant funnel-shaped, rose pink flowers, 1-2 in. wide (2-5 cm), with elegantly protruding stamens, appear in large clusters of 4-12 blossoms before or at the time of the emergence of the leaves. The foliage of elliptic, smooth, blue-green deciduous leaves turns attractive shades of purple in fall. Rich with strong cinnamon to clove fragrance, this Azalea is exceptionally cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -25ºF (-32ºC). A terrific landscape plant for northeastern gardens, this azalea has a marked tolerance to high pH.

Rhododendron prinophyllum is a native azalea that can be found from southwestern Quebec, through New England and northern Ohio, to the Appalachian Mountains at higher elevations.

• This multi-stemmed shrub, with attractive, ascending branches, forms an upright rounded shrub and grows up to 3-8 ft. tall and wide (90-240 cm).
• Winner of the Rhododendron of the Year Award of the American Rhododendron Society for the South Central region.
• 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, 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.