Species Mountain azalea
pink-red flowers with pink filaments, yellow anthers, green leaves and brown stems

Mountain azalea

Rhododendron canescens

The Mountain azalea is an evergreen shrub that grows to a height of about 8 feet. It is native to North America from the Appalachian Mountains to the Appalachian Plateau. The narrow, dark green leaves provide year-round interest. In late spring and into the summer, fragrant white flowers with an occasional pink tinge appear. These blooms provide an attractive contrast to the foliage and are an excellent source of food for butterflies and hummingbirds. Pruning can also help keep the shrub smaller and more flowering. With its tolerance of acidic soils, Mountain azalea is an excellent choice for brightening shade gardens.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

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

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Pink (infrequently white) Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Mountain azalea (Rhododendron canescens) should be watered lightly but frequently. Water the plant whenever the top 2 inches of soil are dry, especially during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. Water until it runs from the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot and can lead to the demise of your plant. During the winter months, hold off on watering and allow the soil to dry out more completely.

sunlight

Mountain azalea (Rhododendron canescens) requires direct sun for about 4 hours daily in order to flower properly. This sun should be within the mid-morning or late afternoon hours, as full, direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day can be too intense for the plant. If planted in a full sun position, some shade should be provided during the hottest parts of the day.

pruning

Pruning Mountain azalea (Rhododendron canescens) should be done in the early spring, after its blooms have faded. Generally, it is best to prune them lightly, removing only a few of the oldest branches to promote air circulation and new growth. It is important to avoid ‘over pruning’ these plants, as this can damage the foliage. When shaping the plant, be sure to follow its natural shape and maintain its desired size.

Season

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

Rhododendron canescens typically starts flowering in late April or early May.

Hardiness Map