Sweet Azalea (Rhododendron arborescens)

The sweet azalea (Rhododendron arborescens) is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 10′ tall with a similar width. It thrives in acidic, well-draining soils and in part shade. There are two main forms of sweet azalea. The straight species blooms in late May to mid-June, while the selection called ‘Georgiana’ blooms mid-July to early August. Regardless of form, the flowers have a wonderful, strong fragrance that lives up to its name. The 2″-wide flowers can be white, sometimes tinged with pink, and very rarely all pink.  The leaves turn a lovely crimson/orange in the fall. This species makes an outstanding addition to any garden.