<i>Rhododendron arborescens</i> | Sweet Azalea
DESCRIPTION
Rhododendron arborescens, commonly known as the sweet or smooth azalea, is a deciduous shrub celebrated for its fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The blossoms are typically white to pale pink, often with a yellow or pink flush at the throat, and are held in loose clusters, creating an elegant and airy appearance. The sweet, spicy fragrance of the flowers is one of its most notable features, attracting pollinators and adding a delightful scent to the garden. The foliage is glossy green and elliptical, turning shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall, providing seasonal interest beyond the blooming period. Rhododendron arborescens is ideal for naturalistic plantings, woodland gardens, or as a specimen plant where its delicate beauty and captivating fragrance can be fully appreciated.
DESCRIPTION
Rhododendron arborescens, commonly known as the sweet or smooth azalea, is a deciduous shrub celebrated for its fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The blossoms are typically white to pale pink, often with a yellow or pink flush at the throat, and are held in loose clusters, creating an elegant and airy appearance. The sweet, spicy fragrance of the flowers is one of its most notable features, attracting pollinators and adding a delightful scent to the garden. The foliage is glossy green and elliptical, turning shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall, providing seasonal interest beyond the blooming period. Rhododendron arborescens is ideal for naturalistic plantings, woodland gardens, or as a specimen plant where its delicate beauty and captivating fragrance can be fully appreciated.
DESCRIPTION
Rhododendron arborescens, commonly known as the sweet or smooth azalea, is a deciduous shrub celebrated for its fragrant, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The blossoms are typically white to pale pink, often with a yellow or pink flush at the throat, and are held in loose clusters, creating an elegant and airy appearance. The sweet, spicy fragrance of the flowers is one of its most notable features, attracting pollinators and adding a delightful scent to the garden. The foliage is glossy green and elliptical, turning shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall, providing seasonal interest beyond the blooming period. Rhododendron arborescens is ideal for naturalistic plantings, woodland gardens, or as a specimen plant where its delicate beauty and captivating fragrance can be fully appreciated.
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Family: Ericaceae
Height: 5 to 6 feet
Width: 5 to 6 feet
Foliage color: Dark green, turning red or bronze in fall
Flower color: White to pale pink with a sweet fragrance
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light requirements: Partial shade to full sun
Water requirements: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning needed
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 8
Wildlife attractors: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirdsThis plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
