Young 4-year old Flame azalea (select seedling)

Flame azalea (R. calendulaceum) is a spectacular sight when it flowers in early May through June (depending on location). The mountainsides across the Appalachian region seem to be afire with their yellow, orange or red flowers (USDA hardiness zones 5 thru 8). Its native habitat is in open, dry sites in woods, on the hillsides, and on mountaintop open areas (“balds”) from 600 to 5,000 feet in altitude.

Flowers tend to be larger than other native azalea species. Each flower truss contains 3 to 10 flowers, which open before or when leaves are present. Funnel-shaped corolla is about 2 inches long and up to 3 inches wide. Long stamens protrude out from the corolla. The upper petal (lobe) on each bloom exhibits a prominent orange or pinkish blotch. Flowers tend not to be fragrant.

Flame azalea forms an upright branched shrub 5 to 12 feet high with an open spreading canopy. The medium green leaves take on yellow, bronze, and red hues in fall before abscising. Leaves are deciduous, about 1-3 inches long, medium to dark green above, and tiny hairs beneath. Both leaves and branches often develop in whorls.

Flame azaleas are difficult to propagate from cuttings, but are easily started from seeds collected in the fall. The tiny seeds are sprinkled on a fine peat /bark soil-less medium, lightly covered, and frequently misted with water daily. Seeds germinate over 2 – 3 weeks. It may take 3 or more years for seedlings to bloom for the first time.

In the garden flame azalea grows best in morning sun and afternoon shade. Soil drainage must be well drained and supplied with adequate moisture. Mulch around shrub with pine needles or nuggets. Avoid soppy soils! Feed lightly once or twice during the late spring during its growing period with an acidic water-base fertilizer such as  Miracle-Gro™, Schultz™, or Natures Source™. Prune primarily to control shrub height and spread.

Flame azaleas are the “asked-for” native azaleas by gardeners, yet are rarely sold at garden centers. Find them at e-commerce nurseries on-line.