History of the Azalea

Originally placed in a genus of their own, azaleas are now considered to be a form of rhododendron. Azaleas can be divided into deciduous and evergreen types, and are mostly native to hilly areas with damp acidic soil. Their brilliant flower colors have made them a sought-after shrub for centuries.

Azaleas are members of the heath (Ericaceae) family, an ancient group of plants dating to 70 million years ago. They are related to rhododendrons and blueberries. Most azaleas we are familiar with today are descended from Asian shrubs, and were originally cultivated by monks of the Buddhist monasteries. When seeds of the Rhododendron luteum were sent to England from the shores of the Black Sea, it became parent to many azalea hybrids.

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There are three medium-sized azaleas in the front yard on the west side of the house.  They are unusually colorful this year, and the purple color can be seen blocks away.  I'll have to prune them back a little once they are finished blooming, and it will encourage growth upward rather than outward, crowding their neighbors.

This particular azalea was a gift from a friend of my mother, who bought it for us as a housewarming gift 13 years ago.  I love the stories and histories around most of the plants, shrubs and trees in my lovely yard.  It really does take a village...