- Partial Sun to Full Sun (At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)
- Mature Height 3 - 6 Feet
- Mature Spread 3 - 6 Feet
- Growing Zones 4 - 8
- Use As A Thriller In Containers
Mountain Azalea (Rhododendron canescens) enchants gardeners with its sweetly fragrant clusters of pale pink trumpet-shaped blossoms, often appearing in late spring before the leaves fully emerge. These showy blooms create a delicate, airy display that easily brightens shady corners or woodland edges. Reaching around 6 to 8 feet tall (sometimes up to 15 feet), this native azalea stands out for its velvety dark green leaves, which often develop a warm red or burgundy tone in autumn. The combination of enticing scent, striking petals, and attractive foliage sets it apart from more common ornamental shrubs.
In addition to its appealing appearance, Mountain Azalea shows remarkable adaptability to partial shade and moisture-retentive, acidic soil. It comes from the southeastern United States, where it inhabits moist woodland areas and stream sides. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds flock to its early-season nectar, while deer are less likely to feed on its foliage. Whether used in mass plantings, as a focal point in shade gardens, or tucked among other woodland species, this deciduous azalea excels in bringing height and charm with minimal fuss. The overall effect is a garden space filled with gentle beauty and wildlife activity.
Mountain Azalea Care
Select a site with dappled sunlight or partial shade, as harsh afternoon rays may scorch the foliage. The soil should be acidic, rich in organic matter, and drain well—amend heavy or dense ground before planting. Water regularly during the establishment phase, particularly in dry spells; afterward, consistent moisture promotes healthy growth. An acid-specific fertilizer applied in early spring supports bud formation and vigorous foliage. Spread a layer of mulch to keep the shallow roots cool and help the soil remain evenly moist.
Prune right after flowering to shape the shrub or remove any damaged branches. Because Mountain Azalea sets next year’s buds in summer, avoid cutting back too late, or you’ll reduce future blooms. If desired, mild thinning encourages airflow and may improve bloom quality. Container cultivation is possible but requires careful watering and occasional root checks for crowding.
Mountain Azalea Spacing
For a natural, airy hedge, plant shrubs about 4 to 6 feet apart, allowing their crowns to eventually overlap. If you prefer individual spacing in a more open design, keep at least 6 feet between them so each plant’s architecture is clearly visible. In container settings, start with a pot at least 16 inches across to accommodate the shallow root system, moving to larger sizes as the shrub matures.
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Mountain Azalea Information
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 - 8 |
Plant Type: |
Light Exposure: Partial Sun to Full Sun (At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight) |
Mature Height: 3 - 6 Feet |
Mature Spread: 3 - 6 Feet |
Spacing: 3 - 6 Feet |
Habit: Mounded |
Flower Color(s): Pink |
Flower Description: Pastel Pink |
Bloom Period: Late Spring to Early Summer |
Foliage Type: Deciduous |
Foliage Color(s): Green |
Foliage Description: Dark green |
Seasonal Interest: Spring Flowering, Summer Flowering, Fall Interest, 3 Season Interest |
Watering: Moderate,High water needs |
Resists: Deer, Disease, Pests & Insects |
Tolerates: N/A |
Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
Container Role: Thriller |
Uses: Borders, Combinations, Containers, Mass Planting, Specimen or Focal Point, Sensory Gardens, Wildlife Gardens |
Features: Attracts Pollinators, Cut Flowers, Deadheading Not Necessary, Foliage Interest, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Native to North America |
Brand: |
Common Name: Mountain Azalea |
Other Name(s): Early Azalea |
Scientific Name: Rhododendron canescens |
- SKU:
- 1231021485-pc
Container Sizes
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.

Quart Pot
Also Known As:
Quart
Plant Age:
~ 6 months - 1 year
Plant Size:
~ 4"-8"
Pot Size:
~ 4.75"H x 4.5"W
Volume:
1.50 quarts

2.5 Quart
Also Known As:
2.5 Quart Pot
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 8"-12"
Pot Size:
~ 6.5"H x 6.5"W
Volume:
2.20-2.30 quarts

#1 Pot
Also Known As:
#1 Container
1 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 10"-14"
Pot Size:
~ 7"H x 7.75"W
Volume:
2.26-3.73 quarts

#2 Pot
Also Known As:
#2 Container
2 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1.5 - 3 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-18"
Pot Size:
~ 9.5"H x 9.5"W
Volume:
1.19-1.76 gallons

#3 Pot
Also Known As:
#3 Container
3 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 2 - 4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-30"
Pot Size:
~9.5"H x 11"W
Volume:
2.32-2.76 gallons

#5 Pot
Also Known As:
#5 Container
5 Gallon
Plant Age:
~3-4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 20" - 60"
Pot Size:
~11" H x 10 1/2” W
Volume:
3.5 - 4 gallons

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Pre-Ordered Plants
Pre-ordered plants are scheduled to ship in Spring 2025. We carefully plan our shipping dates based on your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone to ensure optimal planting conditions upon arrival. Want it sooner/later? Reach out, and we'll try our best to accommodate.
Estimated Spring Shipping Schedule
Estimated ship week for pre-ordered plants will ship based on growing zones as shown below.
Growing Zone | Estimated Ship Week |
---|---|
Zone 10 | March 24th |
Zone 9 | March 31st |
Zone 8 | April 7th |
Zone 7 | April 14th |
Zone 6b | April 21st |
Zone 6a | April 28th |
Zone 5b | May 5th |
Zone 5a | May 12th |
Zone 4 | May 19th |
Zone 3 | May 26th |
Note: These are only estimated ship dates. Plants may ship out later depending on weather & growing conditions of the plant.
Note: Only plants indicated as pre-order will ship as shown above. All other plants and hard goods will ship as normal.
Plants Shipping Now
Plants that are currently in stock typically ship within 2-7 business days after your order is placed.