Piedmont azalea

Plant Type

Small Tree/Large Shrub (10-25 ft)

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

6-12 ft. tall
6-12 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Occasional Flooding

Inolerant of

Direct Afternoon Sun

Propagation

By seed

Plant Propagation Notes

Mix seed loosely in sphagnum moss and sprinkled over a 2:1 perlite/peat mixture. Best germination temperature between 45-50 degrees F. Tent with plastic to retain moisture.

Plant Planting Notes

Provide up to 12′ spacing.

Plants/Diseases

Several insect pests as well as leaf pathogens may ail these plants.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Nectar source for hummingbirds

Leaves

The deciduous leaves are alternate with elliptical to obovate blades and serrate margins.

Flowers

Funnel shaped flowers with 4-5 petals on a raceme of 5-9.

Fruit

Capsule.

Bark

Shredding. Bark may be light brown, light gray, and red to burgundy.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.

USDA Hardiness Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Part Sun/Shade, Full Shade

Soil Moisture

Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Moist to dry woods, pocosins, swamps, and savannahs.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Uncommon in SC Mountains & NC Coastal Plain. Rare in NC Mountains & NC Piedmont.