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Key characteristics

Family: Ericaceae
Height: 5 to 6 feet
Width: 5 to 6 feet
Flower color: White to pale pink with a sweet fragrance
Foliage color: Dark green, turning red or bronze in fall
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning needed
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 8
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Shrubs

Rhododendron arborescens

Sweet Azalea

Rhododendron arborescens produces highly fragrant, funnel-shaped white to blush-pink flowers from late spring into early summer, accented by long, prominent red to deep pink stamens extending beyond the petals. Smooth, glossy dark green leaves emerge before flowering, creating a leafy backdrop for the delicate blooms. In autumn, the deciduous foliage develops rich shades of orange, crimson, red, and purple before falling, adding another season of color.

Light

Partial shade to full sun

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Shade Gardens
Fragrant Gardens
Pathways & Walkways
Woodland Gardens

Companion plants

Hydrangea · Viburnum · Pulmonaria · Japanese forest grass · Wood sorrel · Epimedium

Design tip

Grow sweet azalea near a patio, walkway, or other area where you spend time in late spring so its sweet, spicy fragrance can be enjoyed up close. Its loose, airy shape also fits naturally along woodland edges, where it won’t look overly formal or manicured.