// SPECIES PROFILE · SHRUB · NATIVE

Wild Azalea

Rhododendron canescens

Wild Azalea (Rhododendron canescens) is a shrub in the Ericaceae family. Native to 13 U.S. states (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center distribution data). Hardy in zones 5a–9a. Mature size 6'–10'. Blooms Mar–May.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: Ericaceae
Group: shrub
Native range: Native to 13 U.S. states, including AL, CT, GA, KY, MD, NC…
USDA hardiness: Zones 5a–9a
Mature size: 6'–10'
Sun: Part shade
Water: —
Bloom: Mar–May
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: Ouachita native azalea · fragrant pink spring blooms

Wild Azalea (Rhododendron canescens) — *Rhododendron canescens* — Wild Azalea. Photo by Eric Hunt via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Why it's on this list: Ouachita native azalea · fragrant pink spring blooms. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, wild azalea pairs naturally with: American Bladdernut (Staphylea trifolia), American Hazelnut (Corylus americana), American Plum (Prunus americana), American Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana).