Family: Ericaceae
Author: (Small) Millais
Bibliography: Millais. (1917). In: Rhododendrons, 229.
Year: 1921
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Rhododendron
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: NC. & E. U.S.A.
Description
The Early Azalea, scientifically known as Rhododendron prinophyllum, is a captivating flowering shrub belonging to the family Ericaceae. Esteemed for its fragrant flowers and striking appearance, this plant holds a prominent place in the native flora of North Carolina as well as Eastern regions of the United States.
Renowned British horticulturist Millais extensively documented Rhododendron prinophyllum in his 1917 publication “Rhododendrons,” where he paid particular attention to the plant’s distinguishing characteristics and its habitat preferences. As Millais (1917) describes in his detailed account, the Early Azalea thrives in varied environments, ranging from the moist woodlands to the open fields of its native distribution.
The Early Azalea is particularly noted for its clusters of pink, sometimes white, tubular flowers which emit a delightful fragrance that can be described as spicy and sweet. These blooms typically appear in late spring, heralding the season with their brilliant display and attracting a myriad of pollinators. The plant’s leaves are deciduous, simple, and generally oblong, contributing to its elegance throughout the growing season.
Aside from its ornamental value, Rhododendron prinophyllum is an important ecological component, providing habitat and food for various wildlife species. Its preference for acidic soils rich in organic material reflects its adaptability to the natural forest floors where it often resides.
The Early Azalea’s aesthetic appeal and ecological importance make it a cherished addition to gardens and natural landscapes alike. Enthusiasts and botanists continue to study and admire this plant, as detailed in Millais’s revered work, ensuring that its legacy endures for generations to come.
Common Names
Eng: early azalea, election-pink, roseshell azalea
Swe: rosenazalea
En: Early azalea, Election-pink, Roseshell azalea
Bg: Розов рододендрон
Fi: Rusoatsalea
Ru: Рододендрон розовый
Sv: Rosenazalea
Synonyms
- Rhododendron roseum ((Loisel.) Rehder)
Distribution
Additional Images
Flower
Taken May 16, 2022 by Erika Geminetti (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 2, 2020 by erin pruitt (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 2, 2019 by Joey Joey Bigsby (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 12, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 12, 2021 by Corina Cisarik (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Wagner, W.L. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 4, 2005 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (gpl)
Taken Apr 16, 2021 by S Bren (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken May 8, 2022 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Mar 31, 2012 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 31, 2012 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 4, 2005 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 29, 2020 by pas durdu (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 25, 2022 by CJ Jones (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Apr 11, 2020 by Hilde (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 16, 2022 by Matthew Jadlocki (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 17, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2011 by EOL − Ron Thomas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2883079)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Rhododendron prinophyllum (Small) Millais)