Quick answer: Orange azalea (Rhododendron austrinum) is native to 5 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: Ezra S F, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Well-drained, sandy soil, acidic pH |
| Bloom | Bloom Mar-Apr |
| Height | 8-10 ft, up to 15 ft |
| Wildlife value | Special value to bumble bees, all parts highly toxic |
All parts highly toxic, may be fatal if eaten. Honey from flowers may also be toxic. Symptoms: salivation, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weakness, progressive paralysis. Toxic principle: andromedotoxin
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Orange azalea
Where is Orange azalea native?
Orange azalea (Rhododendron austrinum) is native to Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Orange azalea bloom?
Orange azalea blooms Mar-Apr. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Orange azalea need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Dry. Soil: Well-drained, sandy soil, acidic pH. Mature height: 8-10 ft, up to 15 ft.
Is Orange azalea good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Special value to bumble bees, all parts highly toxic.
Is Orange azalea deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Orange azalea is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Is Orange azalea toxic?
All parts highly toxic, may be fatal if eaten. Honey from flowers may also be toxic. Symptoms: salivation, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weakness, progressive paralysis. Toxic principle: andromedotoxin.
Where can I buy real Orange azalea seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Rhododendron austrinum on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Orange azalea.
- Stokes aster Stokesia laevis
- Dwarf palmetto Sabal minor
- Florida anisetree Illicium floridanum
- Threadleaf coreopsis Coreopsis verticillata
- Standing cypress Ipomopsis rubra
- Yaupon holly Ilex vomitoria
Also listed under
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