Pinkshell Azalea
Rhododendron vaseyi (rho-doh-DEN-dron vah-SAY-ee)
Pinkshell azalea is a woody, broadleaf evergreen or deciduous shrub in the Ericaceae (blueberry) family that is native only to the mountains of North Carolina. It is found growing near bogs and streams in acidic, moist and wet substrates. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide with a rounded irregular habit. The genus name derives from the Greek words rhodo , which means rose, and dendron, meaning tree. Plant in full sun to partial shade for best blooming in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil. It does not tolerate dense clay, so if you have clay soil, amend with organic material. Pruning, if desired, may be done after flowering. It is an early blooming azalea and the pink flowers appear before the leaves do, making them stand out even better. The flowers lack the trumpet form of most native azaleas and are flatter in shape. Fall foliage is red to burgundy if it gets some sun. Use in a woodland, pollinator, or native garden as a specimen or in groups. It may also be used as a hedge or in foundation plantings. 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. While these shrubs 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. However, if you have a site with a history of this disease, consider planting a root rot-resistant alternative species. 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, 67 attributes.