The funnel-shaped flowers of flame azalea bloom late May to early June, setting the Appalachians afire with brilliant hues of orange, gold, and red. In early spring, the expanded buds are said to resemble candle flames. The deciduous shrub is native mainly to the Appalachians, from Pennsylvania to Georgia. It’s endangered in Ohio due to overshading from dense forests and overharvesting for ornamental use.
Flame azalea may be one of the rare plants to be pollinated mainly by butterfly wings in a process called wing-borne pollen transfer. A study conducted by biologist Mary Jane Epps found that the specialized structure of the flower is best pollinated by two species of butterflies. "We know that generally speaking, pollinator populations are in decline,” Epps says. “So it’s important that we find out how dependent plants are on specific pollinators, in order to preserve and protect plant species." Learn more about the study at https://tinyurl.com/a444bvz9.
Prune after it blooms to 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.
Plant Characteristics:
Grows 4-15' tall and 8-10' wide.
Grows in full sun to partial or deep shade. Protect from afternoon sun, which scorches leaves.
Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic, loamy or sandy soil. Dense clay should be amended.
Thin, gray-brown bark has finely shredded appearance.
Reproductive System: Male and female parts appear on the same flower (perfect). While it is self-fertile, it benefits from cross-pollination.
Wildlife Value:
Members of the genus Rhododendron support the following specialized bee: Andrena (Andrena) cornelli. Hummingbirds, butterflies and other pollinators are attracted to the nectar. Tolerates rabbit browse.
Medicinal, Edible, and Other Uses:
The Cherokee used infusions of the plant as a gynecological aid, and peeled bark and twigs may have been used to treat rheumatism.
Caution: All parts of the plant are poisonous to humans, horses, cats, and dogs.
Resources:
Mountain Lake Biological Station: https://mlbs.virginia.edu/organism/rhododendron
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