Pinxterbloom Azalea

Rhododendron periclymenoides (rho-doh-DEN-dron per-ih-kly-men-OY-deez)

Family: Ericaceae Native Shrub (3-15 ft)

Pinxterbloom azalea is a deciduous, woody shrub in the Ericaceae (blueberry) family that is native to moist woods, swamp margins, and open areas from Massachusetts to South Carolina and Tennessee. It is a dense, bushy, suckering shrub that typically grows 2 to 6 feet (less frequently to 10 feet) tall. The genus name derives from the Greek words rhodo , which means rose, and dendron , meaning tree. This plant has a slow growth rate and prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils in dappled shade with protection from afternoon sun which can scorch the leaves. It does not tolerate dense clay, so if you have clay soil, amend with organic material. Plant the root ball high in the soil to help with drainage issues. Avoid overwatering and over-fertilizing. Pruning, if desired, may be done after flowering. Pinxterbloom azalea would be at home as an understory shrub planted in groups in woodland or naturalized areas. It can also be used as a hedge or as a specimen in a butterfly or pollinator garden where the flowers will attract hummingbirds and bees. Fire Risk: This plant has a medium flammability rating. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Insect problems include aphids, borers, lace bugs, leafhoppers, mealybugs, mites, nematodes, scale, thrips, and whitefly. Diseases include canker, crown rot, root rot, leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. This plant is frequently damaged by deer. While rhododendrons remain very popular for landscape use, many cultivars are susceptible to Phytophthora root rot—this leads to leaf loss, reduced vigor, branch dieback, and wilting. Implement good cultural practices first, such as improving drainage with organic matter or berms and avoiding overwatering or overfertilization. For suitable alternatives, see this video created by Charlotte Glen as part of the Plants, Pests, and Pathogens series. VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for " Trees, Shrubs and Conifers " a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens. More information on Rhododendron .

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 59 attributes.