Pinxter Azalea (Rhododendron canescens)

Rhododendron canescens is known as the Sweet Pinxter Azalea, Pinxter Azalea, Pinxter Flower, Hoary Azalea, or Mountain Azalea. Pinxter Azaleas grow at several places along the lake shore at Fort Yargo State Park; particularly along sections of segments, 2, 6, and 13. Most years they provide blazing displays of flowers. Unfortunately, many of these plants were cut down and place in the lake to attract fish. There were some very limited displays but the flowers only lasted for a week or so. Hopefully, these plants will grow back in flower profusely again in future years.

The flower buds have a lot of character

Very early

A little further along

And further yet

Opening in the shade along segment 13.

Opening at the lake’s edge

In happier days

Rhododendron canescens is native to the United States. It grows in the southeastern United States from Virginia south to Florida, west to Texas and Oklahoma as well as in Kentucky, Pennsylvania and Maryland.
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Distribution Map:
- United States Department of Agriculture Plants Database: Rhododendron canescens (Mountain Azalea)

Identification resources:
- Southeastern Flora: Mountain Azalea (Rhododendron canescens)

Related posts:
- 2010: Year Of The Wildflower
- Piedmont Azalea: Rhododendron canescens