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Flame azalea

Rhododendron calendulaceum

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This plant’s leaves are mid-green and are softly hairy on both sides. In late midseason, as leaves emerge or just after, this plant bears lax trusses of yellow to dark reddish-orange flowers. It grows to 8 feet tall and wide.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsNative of the eastern United States.

CarePrefers full sun but may need shade in the South. Grow in moist, fertile, humus-rich acidic soil (pH 4.5 to 5.5) in dappled shade. Plant shallow, as plants are surface rooted and like a mulch covering.

PropagationRoot semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or autumn. Layer in autumn.

ProblemsVine weevil, whitefly, leafhoppers, lacebugs, scale, caterpillars, aphids. Powdery mildew, rust, bud blast, leaf gall, petal blight, root rot, and chlorosis (due to insufficient soil acid).

  • Genus : Rhododendron
  • Zones : 5, 6, 7
  • Plant Height : 6 to 10 feet
  • Plant Width : 6 to 10 feet
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Flower Color : Red, Yellow
  • Plant Type : Shrubs
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest

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