Piedmont Azalea
Rhododendron canescens
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 16, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
Similar needs
Cleyera
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Elderberry
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Saltbush
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Sweet Olive
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Sweetshrub
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Viburnum
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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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.