DECIDUOUS AZALEAS
Deciduous azaleas are less well known than evergreen azaleas by gardeners in the Middle Atlantic area.
These azaleas lose their leaves in the winter and are thus not as popular in this area where gardeners like to
see green leaves in the winter. One advantage deciduous azaleas have over evergreen is the extensive color
range of the flowers. Deciduous azaleas are available in colors from pale yellow to lemon yellow to gold
and brilliant orange. There are also reds, whites, pinks, and various blends and combinations. Many have
fragrant flowers as an added bonus.
Native American species of deciduous azaleas are available from some sources, especially some
nurseries and mail order nurseries that specialize in native plants. The flowers of these natives are usually
smaller than most of the newer hybrids, but they do have a special simplicity and elegance suited to many
situations.
Many deciduous azalea hybrids have been developed with large showy flowers. The Exbury hybrids are
a very popular group of hybrids with others such as llam hybrids becoming better known every year.
Deciduous azaleas have more tolerance to sun than most rhododendrons. Some of the most popular varieties
of deciduous azaleas are:
atlanticum
'Brazil'
calendulaceum
canescens
'Cecile'
'Gog'
'Goldcrest'
'Homebush'
'Klondike'
'Old Gold'
prunifolium
'Strawberry Ice'
'Toucan'
viscosum
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