Alabama Azalea Rhododendron alabamense

Alabama azalea is a rounded, woody, deciduous shrub in the Ericaceae (blueberry) family. It is native to Alabama and Georgia. The genus name derives from the Greek words rhodo, which means rose, and dendron, meaning tree.  This compact rhododentron grows to a height  and width of 4 to 6 feet.

Alabama azalea grows in drier woodlands than most of our other native azaleas. Place it in a site with partial shade and well-drained acidic soil with a high content of loam and sand as well as organic matter. Mulch it each year to keep the soil moist and cool. Protect it from afternoon sun, as it can scorch the leaves and the roots may rot if the soil does not drain well. It spreads by underground runners.

It has white flowers with a prominent lemon-yellow blotch on the upper petal, and a distinct, lemon fragrance. These flowers support pollinators like bees. Though this plant is frequently damaged by deer, it tolerates damage by rabbits.  Propagate this shrub through softwood cutting or layering.

Alabama azalea is at home as an understory shrub planted in small groups in woodland, or cottage garden. Consider using in in a shrub border or place it in a location of prominence as a specimen in a pollinator garden or along a walkway or patio where its sweet fragrance can be enjoyed.  It is also at home in a meadow or other naturalized area of the landscape. Prune rhododendrons and azaleas after they bloom to preserve the current season's bloom, and 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. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Insect problems include aphids, borers, lace bugs, leafhoppers, mealybugs, mites, nematodes, scale, thrips, and whitefly. Diseases include canker, crown rot, root rot, leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. While these shrubs remain very popular for landscape use, many cultivars are susceptible to Phytophthora root rot– this leads to leaf loss, reduced vigor, branch dieback, and wilting.  Implement good cultural practices first, such as improving drainage with organic matter or berms and avoiding overwatering or overfertilization.  However, if you have a site with a history of this disease, consider planting one of the root rot-resistant alternative species listed in the left-hand sidebar. For suitable alternatives, see this video created by Charlotte Glen as part of the Plants, Pests, and Pathogens series.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common diseases of rhododendron.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Rhododendron.