Shrub
Piedmont Azalea
Rhododendron canescens
Varieties We Carry
StandardRhododendron canescens
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$49.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightPart Sun, Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size8-12 feet × 6-10 feet
About Piedmont Azalea
Pinxter azalea (Rhododendron canescens) is a native deciduous shrub found across the southeastern United States, producing fragrant, pale pink to deep pink trumpet-shaped flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge. It is one of the most common wild azaleas in the South and a valuable native for naturalistic woodland gardens. Starting at $49.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- Pink, White
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges.
Active growing season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Light
Plant in dappled sunlight to partial shade, mimicking its natural understory habitat; protect from hot afternoon sun which can scorch leaves in NE Florida's summers.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged; shallow, fibrous roots are sensitive to drought and to standing water. Mulch heavily to retain soil moisture and protect the root zone during summer heat.
Soil & Fertilizer
Requires moist, well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5–5.5) rich in organic matter; amend NE Florida's sandy soil with compost and pine bark at planting. Apply an acid-forming azalea fertilizer in early spring; do not fertilize after July.
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Common questions
Is Piedmont Azalea a good plant for St. Augustine?
Piedmont Azalea is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 8-12 feet × 6-10 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.