Royal Azalea

Rhododendron schlippenbachii
Ericaceae

Growth Habit

Shrub

Description

Growth habit of this deciduous shrub is upright and open with thinly textured leaves in whorls of five at each stem tip, and flowers which emerge either just before or along with the leaves. The light foliage will not tolerate excessive sun exposure, and the choice of a location protected from afternoon summer sun will result in a soft green well shaped plant. Obovate leaves, to 5", are dark green and smooth on top, paler beneath with a few hairs, turning to crimson, orange or yellow in autumn. Star like, delicate pink flowers, to almost 3.5" across, flat-saucer shaped, may also be white tinged pink or white with reddish spots.

Source of plant

American Rhododendron Society

USDA Hardiness Zone

5

Special characteristics

flower color, fall color