Piedmont Azalea

Rhododendron flammeum

Native to:
United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Ericaceae
Genus:
Rhododendron
Species:
Rhododendron flammeum
USDA Symbol:
RHFL

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub
Height:
300 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
apr,may
Bloom Colors:
orange, red, yellow
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★★☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
butterflies, hummingbirds
Fragrant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.0 - 6.0 (acidic)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
native to southeastern US, prefers organic matter-rich soil

Propagation & Germination

Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).; then Cold-moist stratification for 60 days.

Source: Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Requires light or the seed is very fine. Surface sow and expose to light. * sprinkle seed on 10 cm damp sphagnum moss; cover with clear plastic pop bottle cut in half; transplant seedling to acidic mix in shade outdoors when 5 cm high; protect from rodents and give protection in cold frame first winter

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society