Rhododendron austrinum

Florida flame azalea, or also honeysuckle azalea is a deciduous rhododendron species from South USA (Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi), almost unknown in Europe. It is often mistaken for swamp azalea owing to strongly scented flowers and smaller leaves. The flowers are creamy to yellow or even orange with red flames towards the calyx. They are funnel-shaped, open wide revealing up to 5 cm long stamens. Deciduous leaves are narrowly elliptic, mid green. In our climate it grows moderately to about 2m tall shrub.

This azalea comes from hot climate and can cope with summer drought but dislikes wet feet. Make sure to grow it well-drained soil which if kept evenly moist will help the plant grow bushier and with better foliage. The roots are shallow, spreading to sides in search for nutrients. Never plant them too deep. The soil has to be acidic (pH 4.5-5.5), rich in humus. Ideal soil mixture is peat with lime-free, light garden soil topped with leaf-mould. For better looking plant dead-head where possible. Hardy to min. -24°C (USDA zone 6), possibly a few degrees lower.

Last update 20-05-2019