Rhododendron Calendulaceum 2-3‘

🔥Flame Azalea
Rhododendron calendulaceum

Fiery flames of flowers on these gorgeous WNC Native Shrubs!

RARE. Breathtaking shrubs of the Appalachian mountains have stunning blooms in a range of colors: orange, yellow, apricot, pink, and scarlet. The bright buds resemble the flames of a fire, inspiring the common name.

These unique WNC Native plants have loose branches and an upright habit. They are deciduous, with yellow-red fall foliage color and interesting shredded bark in winter. 

🌎Support Nature: Flame Azaleas are ecologically important to our native bumblebees, according to the Xerxes Society. Their nectar also attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators.

🏡Showy and ornamental, Flame Azaleas are ideal specimens or hedge plants. Use them in Butterfly Gardens, Native Gardens, Pollinator Gardens, and Woodland Gardens. They are also lovely additions to gardens just off a shady patio.

Rhododendron calendulaceum are happiest in morning sun / filtered light / partial shade, with acidic, moist, well-draining soil. 

Cold hardy to zone 5 (-20F).
10’T x 8’W.

🌱Plant Nerd: According to the US Forest Service, Flame Azaleas are important understory shrubs in forests formerly full of American Chestnut (Castanea dentata) trees. The American Chestnuts previously occupied over 200 million acres! Flame Azaleas were also once more widespread than they are today, they are now considered extinct in Pennsylvania and possibly Alabama as well. Let's plant these beautiful plants to ensure their survival, and the survival of all the creatures who depend on them!

The USFS also state, "Flame azalea is considered one of the finest ornamental shrubs in the United States" - high praise for our lovely Rhododendron calendulaceum!

Rhododendron calendulaceum is one of about 30 species of Rhododendrons native to North America, and one of 12 native to the Western North Carolina region. Many of our native Rhododendrons are increasingly hard to find in the wild due to a variety of causes, so whenever you find them available, they are excellent plants to add to your shady plant collection.

Rhododendrons are members of the Ericaceous family, alongside Blueberries, Cranberries, Heaths, and more. Rhododendrons have been traced back to 55 million years ago! The vast majority of Rhododendrons are native to Asia.

In the wild, they grow on mountainsides and grassy balds. Rhododendron calendulaceum notably grows on Roan Mountain. They can also be found growing along the Blue Ridge Parkway.