Rhododendron alabamense – Alabama Azalea (B&B.FRG.H.HMR.NB.OP.RR)

Ecosystem Services:
(B)-Birds                                             (B&B)-Birds & Butterflies

(BTF)-Butterflies                             (BW)-Black Walnut Resistant

(DR)-Deer Resistant                      (DRGHT)-Drought Resistant

(EC)-Erosion Control                    (EVR)-Evergreen

(FC)-Fall Color                                 (FRG)-Fragrant

(GRD)-Groundcover                      (H)-Host plant

(HMR)-Hummingbirds                (M)-Mammals

(MTH)-Moths                                   (N)-Nectar

(NB)-Native Bees                            (NST)-Nesting Material

(OP)-Other pollinators                 (RR)-Rabbit Resistant

(SHWY)-Showy                                (SPC)-Specimen Plant

Alabama azalea is a rounded, woody, deciduous shrub in the Ericaceae (blueberry) family. It is native to Alabama and Georgia.

Alabama azalea is one of our smaller native azaleas, and grows to a height and width of 4-6′.  It grows in drier woodlands than most of our other native azaleas. Place it in a site with partial shade and well-drained acidic soil with a high content of loam and sand as well as organic matter. Mulch it each year to keep the soil moist and cool. Protect it from afternoon sun, as it can scorch the leaves and the roots may rot if the soil does not drain well. It spreads by underground runners.

It has white flowers with a prominent lemon-yellow blotch on the upper petal, and a distinct, lemon fragrance. These flowers support pollinators like bees. Though this plant is frequently damaged by deer, it tolerates damage by rabbits.  Propagate this shrub through softwood cutting or layering.

Alabama azalea is at home as an understory shrub planted in small groups in woodland, or cottage garden. Consider using in in a shrub border or place it in a location of prominence as a specimen in a pollinator garden or along a walkway or patio where its sweet fragrance can be enjoyed.  It is also at home in a meadow or other naturalized area of the landscape. Prune rhododendrons and azaleas after they bloom to preserve the current season’s bloom, and allow time for the plant to produce flower buds for next year’s bloom.  Rhododendrons and azaleas set next year’s flower buds by mid to late summer

All parts of the Rhododendron genus contain the poisons Andromedotoxin, Grayantoxin.

As a host plant, Rhododendron alabamense can be a food source or a place where certain insects lay their eggs or develop. 

Members of the genus Rhododendron support the following specialized bee: Andrena (Andrena) cornelli, and bumble bees.