Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Mulching helps retain moisture.
Reduce watering slightly in winter when the plant is dormant, but never let it dry out completely.
Also known as Cultivated Rhododendron · Rhododendron
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, celebrated for its vibrant, fiery orange to red flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled light. Protect from intense, direct sunlight.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Maintain evenly moist soil, especially during dry periods. Avoid letting the soil dry out.
Acidic, well-draining
50% intensity
Adaptable
50% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures but thrives in moderate climates. Protect from extreme heat and frost.
Acid-Loving
50% intensity
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Parts of plant are poisonous if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Mulching helps retain moisture.
Reduce watering slightly in winter when the plant is dormant, but never let it dry out completely.
Prune immediately after flowering to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall, as this can remove flower buds for the following season.
Best propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in mid-summer. Rooting hormone can improve success rates. Layering in spring or fall is also an effective method for Rhododendron calendulaceum.
Seed propagation is possible but may not result in true-to-type plants.
Repot container-grown plants every 2-3 years in spring, before new growth begins. Use a well-draining, acidic potting mix. Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the old one. Water thoroughly after repotting.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum)
Where Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
| Species | Rhododendron calendulaceum |
Similar in genus Rhododendron
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
