western azalea
Rhododendron occidentale
USDA zones7 to 9
SunHandles partial sun to partial shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size6 to 15 feet tall6 to 15 feet wide
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- White , pink , orange , yellow
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay
- Soil pH
- Acid
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Western azalea (Rhododendron occidentale) is a shrub for borders, hedges, and low maintenance gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 7, or down to 0°F (-18°C). This plant likes part sun or part shade and average to wet, sandy, loamy, or clay soil. The fragrant flowers come in large clusters at the stem ends and range from white to deep pink. It is a parent of many hybrid azaleas. It is not a favorite of rabbits, though hungry rabbits will eat almost anything. Butterflies and hummingbirds visit the blooms.
Pairs well with Siebold's hosta, Jack Frost Siberian bugloss, and Wood anemone.
Native range
CA and OR.