Flame azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum) Genus:  Rhododendron This plant's leaves are mid-green, and 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 Characteristics:  Native of the eastern United States. Care:  Prefers 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. Propagation:  Root semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or autumn. Layer in autumn. Problems:  Vine 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).

Overview

Height 6 ft. to 10 ft. Spread 6 ft. to 10 ft. Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Characteristics Native, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Spring Flower Color Salmon, Red, Yellow Style Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Shrubs