Carolina Nature

Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines of North Carolina

Pinkshell Azalea (Rhododendron vaseyi)

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Pinkshell Azalea (Rhododendron vaseyi)

Pinkshell Azalea is a rare showy large shrub. A North Carolina endemic, its known range is currently restricted to five counties in the Mountains, though it may also grows in adjacent areas of South Carolina or Georgia.

The flowers are distinctive, with much shorter corolla tubes (2-5 mm) than other local azaleas.

Whiteside Mountain, Jackson Co., NC 5/14/06 (all photos).

Pinkshell Azalea (Rhododendron vaseyi)

Leaf detail. The leaves tend to broader than those of other azaleas in NC.

Pinkshell Azalea (Rhododendron vaseyi)

Capsules left from last year. The capsules are shorter than those of other azaleas in NC.

Pinkshell Azalea (Rhododendron vaseyi)

Bark detail.

More information:
Center for Plant Conservation
East Coast Native Azaleas
Rosebay.org
USDA PLANTS database

Recommended Tree, Shrub, and Woody Vine Identification Guides