Flame Azalea
Rhododendron calendulaceum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Rhododendron calendulaceum (Flame Azalea) is a deciduous shrub native to the eastern United States, blooming with vibrant orange flowers in May and June. This native azalea thrives in partial shade with medium moisture.
Flame Azalea is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
60"–120" H × 60"–120" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, GA, KY, MD and 8 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Flame azalea is a striking native deciduous shrub that produces brilliant orange to red tubular flowers in late spring. It grows into a large, rounded shrub that provides excellent seasonal interest with its showy blooms and fall foliage color. This woodland native prefers partial shade and consistent moisture.
Growing Flame Azalea
Grow Flame Azalea in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 60 to 120 inches tall and spread 60 to 120 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Flame Azalea is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Large mature size requires adequate space planning
Wildlife value
Host plant for azalea sphinx moth.
The tubular flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and native bees during the late spring bloom period. As a native rhododendron, it supports specialized pollinators that have co-evolved with these plants.
Common questions
- When does Flame Azalea bloom?
- Rhododendron calendulaceum typically blooms in May and June, producing clusters of bright orange to yellow-orange flowers.
- What pollinators visit Flame Azalea?
- Flame Azalea attracts both bees and hummingbirds with its tubular, nectar-rich flowers that bloom in late spring.
- Where is Rhododendron calendulaceum native?
- Flame Azalea is native to the eastern United States, including Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
- Is Flame Azalea toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Flame Azalea is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Flame Azalea toxic to cats?
- Yes. Flame Azalea is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Flame Azalea HOA-friendly?
- Flame Azalea is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Flame Azalea and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz