Species Florida azalea

Florida azalea

Rhododendron austrinum

The Florida azalea is a species of the Rhododendron genus with trumpet-shaped flowers. It is native to the southeastern United States and is an attractive deciduous shrub. Growing up to 10 feet in height, it has large bright yellow or orange blooms with a red center. The blooms appear in spring and last for several weeks. The foliage is also attractive with pointed oval-shaped bronze or green hued leaves. Its smooth, gray bark is great contrast in the garden. Florida azalea prefers deep, moist, acidic soil and full sun to partial shade. Once established, it is easy to maintain and relatively resilient.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

Yellow, peach, orange-red Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Florida azalea plants need to be watered deeply and frequently. In the summer months, water the plants deeply once per week. In the cooler autumn months, water them deeply every 2 weeks. In the winter, water the plants only as needed to keep the soil moist. It's best to underwater rather than overwater Florida azaleas.

sunlight

Florida azaleas prefer to be grown in lightly shaded areas that receive just a few hours of direct sun each day. Ideal planting locations are those that receive dappled sunlight in the morning with filtered sun during the afternoon. The plant can tolerate more sun when temperature and humidity levels are low. During summer months, it is important to provide some shade during the hottest parts of the day. To supplement natural light, Florida azaleas may benefit from supplemental lighting in an east-facing window or on a shaded porch. Artificial lighting should never be directed directly onto the plant, and fluorescent bulbs should be used to create minimal heat.

pruning

Florida azaleas should be pruned in early spring, just before new growth begins. This is usually between late February and early April, depending on your region. Pruning should be done lightly, removing only about 25% of the growth. Cut just above the leaf node to encourage new growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any excess twiggy growth from the center of the bush. Pruning helps to control the size of your plant and shape overall form. Regular pruning also encourages more flowers.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Rhododendron austrinum typically starts flowering in late March or early April.

Hardiness Map