Rhododendron calendulaceum (flame azalea), is also native north Florida according to the University of Florida. However, the USDA website indicates that its range stops just short of Florida. While not necessarily native to Florida, several other native azaleas may be suited to gardens in parts of Florida. These azaleas are native to states just north of Florida, and are grown throughout the southern and eastern states. These include the Alabama azalea (R. alabamense, Zones 6a to 9b): the dwarf or coastal azalea (R. atlanticum, Zones 5 to 9a); the Cumberland azalea (R. cumberlandense, Zones 5a to 8b); the pruneleaf azalea (R. prunifolium, Zones 5 to 9); the sweet or smooth azalea (R. arborescens, Zones 5-9A); pinxterbloom or pink azalea (R. periclymenoides, Zones 4 to 9); and the Oconee or piedmont azalea (R. flammeum, Zones 6a to 9b). Only R. vaseyi and R. canadense prefer a location in more northerly regions of the United States.
Native azaleas should never be taken from native stands, for many of them are endangered. Reputable nurseries offer plants that are not collected from native stands. In the landscape, native azaleas prefer rich, moist, acidic soil in light shade. A thick mulch will help to preserve soil moisture and protect the shallow roots. Pruning is seldom necessary, and any that is needed should be done immediately after flowering since plants bloom on the previous season's growth. Plants can be propagated by seeds or by softwood cuttings.
Native azaleas are difficult to transplant, but it is possible to move them during fall and winter. The roots are delicate and should be handled very carefully. Container grown shrubs can be planted any time of year. Plant these shrubs in partial shade, or full sun as long as supplemental moisture is supplied during dry spells. Native azaleas do not have any major pest problems. If pruning of dead or unruly branches is necessary, do so after azaleas bloom in the spring.
Tall deciduous azaleas can be used as accents, naturalistic groupings, or against walls or fences that emphasize their flowers and interesting form. They look great at the back of the border, where their leggy shape can be disguised by other plants. Well-suited companion plants include Virginia sweetspire, oakleaf hydrangeas, and camellias. Excellent species to try include Alabama azalea (Rhododendron alabamense), which has white flowers and blooms in mid to late April; Florida azalea (R. austrinum), which can be yellow, orange, to red and blooms in April to May; Piedmont azalea (R. canescens) has white to pink flowers and blooms in March to mid-April. Plumleaf azalea (R. prunifolium) is a later bloomer that has orange-red flowers that open in July or August. Native azalea species and hybrids are becoming more widely available and would make a lovely addition to any southern garden.
