Summary
Flame azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum) is an upright, deciduous, loosely-branched azalea. Generally growing 4-8’ tall, it prefers a location in dappled to partial shade in a light, acidic, sandy soils. Although it prefers soils that are consistently moist, they should be well-drained to prevent instances of root rot. In clay-heavy areas, planting in a raised bed should be considered. Site in an area protected from winter winds and away from other shrubs that may encroach into the area of the shallow, fibrous root system. Application of natural mulch (wood chips, bark or pine needles) will aid in moisture retention and stabilization of soil temperatures.
This shrub produces clusters of five to twelve, 2” diameter, non-fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers in varying shades of red to orange, and yellow. Plant as a specimen or mass in a mixed woodland border. Zones 5-7.
More Details
- Plant Type
shrub - Sun/Shade Conditions
partial-shade - Foliage Character
deciduous - Soil Moisture
evenly-moist-to-average - Flowering Period
late-spring, mid-spring - Soil PH
acidic - Flower Color
orange-red, yellow-to-orange - Summer Foliage Color
green - Fall Foliage Color
green - Fruit/Seed Color
brown
Additional Information
Missouri Botanical Garden, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox