Pontic Azalea Rhododendron luteum

Honeysuckle azalea or pontiac azalea is a deciduous shrub with showy, fragrant yellow flowers. It is a member of the Ericaceae (blueberry) family. The honeysuckle azalea is the only azalea native to Europe.  It may be found in alpine meadows, forests, or slopes of Poland, southern Russia, and the Caucasus. The genus name derives from the Greek words rhodo, which means rose, and dendron, meaning tree. The species name, lutem, means yellow and refers to its flowers.

The shrub grows 4 to 5 feet in height and width over a 10 year period and is densely branched with reddish-brown twigs. It slowly naturalizes by root suckers. The showy flowers are fragrant with funnel-shaped yellow blooms that appear in dense clusters. The flowers bloom in May, and they emerge before or at the same time as the leaves.

The plant has very shallow and fibrous roots and requires good drainage. Although they should never dry out completely, poor drainage can result in root rot. Acid, sandy, or loamy soil is preferred. Dappled or partial shade is a requirement because the leaves are easily scorched by the sun. The shrub should be protected from strong winter winds. Mulching with pine needles or wood chips will aid in moisture retention and stabilize the soil temperature.

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. 

Honeysuckle azalea attracts hummingbirds and butterflies as well as bees.  Children can mistake the flowers for honeysuckle and the nectar is poisonous so caution should be taken in where it is planted.   Use it as a specimen or planted in small groups near a patio where the flower fragrance can be enjoyed or use as an understory shrub in a woodland garden.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Rhododendrons are susceptible to insect and disease 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.  Full sun can scorch the leaves and the roots rot if the soil does not drain well.   A healthy plant in the right place with proper maintenance should have few problems. This plant is frequently damaged by deer. For suitable alternatives, see this video created by Charlotte Glen as part of the Plants, Pests, and Pathogens series.

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