HONEYSUCKLE -- The flowers of the native azalea piedmont, or honeysuckle azalea, are very fragrant and pleasant on a calm, early morning garden stroll. (Photo by MSU Extension/Gary Bachman)
by Bronwynne Bailey
April is Native Plant Month, so I want to share a native shrub that has a big impact in your landscape, native azaleas. There are thousands of species of azaleas, mostly coming from Asia. The Plant Native website reports that there are seventeen native varieties. Other resources report fourteen to eighteen.
Native azaleas are different than the Asian varieties. They lose their leaves annually, unlike the deciduous varieties which retain their leaves through winter. However, their leaves will provide a glorious display in fall turning shades of yellow, orange, or red. The fragrant flowers have an open, elegant shape with five petals with long stamens that resemble eyelashes.
Soil Preferences
Native azaleas prefer well-drained, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Planting Depth & Spacing
They prefer dappled shade. In deep shade there will be fewer flowers. In full sun the leaves will brown. Use them to enhance a woodland understory or place under established trees. If your new azalea comes in a pot, soak the container in water for 20 minutes to prevent the roots from sticking to the container. The roots are fragile and should not be cut or spread as we do with other plants. Damage to their shallow root system may be irreversible. Depending on species, your plant will reach a mature height of six to ten feet, so leave space for your shrub to flourish. The best time to plant native azaleas is fall. This allows the plant to focus on establishing a root system instead of producing leaves or flowers.
Watering
Because they are native to our climate, established plants are relatively drought-tolerant and thrive in our southern summers. First year azaleas prefer consistently moist soil and will need regular watering to establish the plant. Once established they will only need supplemental watering during dry periods. A two-inch layer of mulch can protect their shallow root system and retain moisture.
Fertilizing
Fertilize native azaleas after they bloom in spring with an acid-forming fertilizer such as azalea, camellia & rhododendron food or a slow-release shrub & tree food, choose one that contains Sulfur and/or Iron. Alternatively, you can feed with natural organic plant food. To avoid stimulating new growth that could be damaged by an early frost, cease fertilization after August.
Pruning
There is no need to prune native azaleas unless you want to correct shape.
Pests
Native azaleas can be affected by various pests, including lace bugs, azalea mealybugs, spider mites, and borers. These pests can cause unsightly damage, premature leaf drop, and even stunt plant growth if left unmanaged.
Propagation
You can propagate native azaleas through cuttings.
Sources- Carolina Native Nursery in North Carolina, is the largest supplier of native azaleas in the United States.
