Species PlantsPlumleaf Azalea

Plumleaf Azalea

Rhododendron prunifolium

RarePlant
Illustration of Plumleaf Azalea (Rhododendron prunifolium)

Plumleaf Azalea is one of the rarest native azaleas in North America, with a highly restricted natural range confined to ravines along the Chattahoochee River drainage in southwestern Georgia and eastern Alabama. It is notable for its exceptionally late bloom time — flowering in July and August, making it the latest-blooming native azalea in eastern North America. Its deep orange-red to red flowers are a critical midsummer nectar source for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds preparing for fall migration. It is listed as a species of conservation concern due to its extremely limited range.

Habitat
Moist, shaded ravines and stream banks in the Chattahoochee River drainage of southwestern Georgia and eastern Alabama.
Diet
Late-summer flowers are a critical nectar source for migrating Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and large native bumble bees.
How common
Rare

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