Family: Ericaceae
Author: (Michx.) Sweet
Bibliography: Hort. Brit., ed. 2. 343 (1830)
Year: 1830
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Rhododendron
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & SE. U.S.A.
Description
The Hoary azalea, scientifically known as Rhododendron canescens, is a captivating flowering shrub originating from the central and southeastern regions of the United States. This species, first detailed in the second edition of “Hortus Britannicus” published in 1830, was authored by (Michx.) Sweet. It belongs to the Ericaceae family, a diverse group renowned for its beautiful and often aromatic members.
Hoary azalea thrives in various habitats, from woodlands to wetlands, often contributing its lush foliage and delicate blooms to the serene landscapes of its native range. The plant is particularly noted for its enchanting clusters of funnel-shaped flowers, which can range in color from soft pink to a pristine white, often tinged with a gentle hint of sweetness in their fragrance. These blooms usually appear in early spring, heralding the season with their vibrant display.
The shrub’s name, “Hoary,” refers to the fine, whitish hairs that can be found on its branches and leaves. This characteristic lends a silvery appearance to the plant, especially noticeable during the blooming period when contrasted with the vibrant blossoms. Rhododendron canescens typically reaches a height of 6 to 15 feet, creating a considerable presence in the landscape with its sprawling, somewhat irregular form.
Culturally, Hoary azalea is appreciated not only for its beauty but also for its resilience. It prefers acidic, well-drained soils and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, making it an adaptable choice for gardeners and landscapers looking to introduce a touch of the wild yet elegant American flora into their spaces. Additionally, its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies further enhances its ecological value.
With enduring popularity and a place in both natural and cultivated settings, the Hoary azalea stands out as a plant of considerable charm and ecological importance. Its enduring appeal and adaptability ensure that it remains a beloved choice for gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike.
Common Names
Eng: mountain azalea
En: Hoary azalea, Piedmont azalea, Southern pinxterbloom azalea, Mountain azalea, Pinxter azalea
Synonyms
- Rhododendron candidum ((Small) Rehder)
- Azalea nudiflora var. bicolor (Aiton)
- Rhododendron bicolor ((Aiton) Sweet)
- Rhododendron canescens var. candidum ((Small) Rehder)
- Azalea nudiflora var. canescens ((Michx.) Rehder)
- Rhododendron canescens f. subglabrum (Rehder)
- Azalea canescens (Michx.)
- Azalea bicolor ((Aiton) Pursh)
- Azalea candida (Small)
- Azalea canescens var. candida ((Small) Ashe)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 1, 2010 by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Slide Library (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 6, 2016 by EOL − srdudley (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 6, 2016 by EOL − srdudley (cc-by-nc)
Flower
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Apr 17, 2021 by Michelle Galloway (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Mar 29, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2021 by Michelle Galloway (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2021 by Jia Xu (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7657461)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30117552-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Rhododendron canescens (Michx.) Sweet)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2883039)
Specifications
Growth form>: Multiple Stem
Growth habit>: Shrub
Growth rate>: Slow
Growth
Ph maximum: 5.8
Ph minimum: 4.3
