Species PlantsPinxterbloom Azalea

Pinxterbloom Azalea

Rhododendron periclymenoides

CommonPlant
Illustration of Pinxterbloom Azalea (Rhododendron periclymenoides)

Pinxterbloom Azalea is one of the most common and widespread native azaleas of the eastern United States, blooming before or just as the leaves emerge in a cloud of pale pink to lavender-pink flowers. The flowers are lightly fragrant and have notably long, protruding stamens. It grows in a wide range of woodland habitats from dry sandy soils to wet stream banks and is often an indicator of acidic soils. The name 'Pinxter' derives from the Dutch word for Pentecost (Whitsunday), the holiday around which it typically blooms in New England.

Habitat
Moist to dry woodlands, stream banks, and swamp margins across the eastern United States from Maine to South Carolina.
Diet
Flowers pollinated by bumble bees and hummingbirds; thickets provide cover for woodland birds and White-tailed Deer.
How common
Common

Best time to see a Pinxterbloom Azalea

The best time to see a Pinxterbloom Azalea is March–April, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 6,455 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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