Dwarf azalea
Rhododendron atlanticum
Ericaceae · [VERIFY] · introduced
Last updated
A deciduous azalea native to the coastal plain of the eastern United States, from New Jersey south to Georgia, reaching 2 to 6 ft with a 2 to 5 ft spread. Known as the dwarf azalea, it spreads by stolons to form colonies in sandy, acidic soils. Growth rate is medium.
Valued for its fragrant spring flowers and compact, colonizing habit. Well suited to naturalized plantings in acidic, sandy soil. All parts are poisonous to humans, cats, dogs, and horses.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of May 24, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 2172.5 to 2394 GDD₃₂. Dwarf azalea has passed beginning of flowering (1170 GDD₃₂).
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of May 24, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 2,394 | Beginning of flowering | — | — |
| Kent / Auburn | 2,373 | Beginning of flowering | — | — |
| Seattle / UW | 2,332 | Beginning of flowering | — | — |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 2,295 | Beginning of flowering | — | — |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 2,259 | Beginning of flowering | — | — |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 2,256 | Beginning of flowering | — | — |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 2,173 | Beginning of flowering | — | — |
View full calendar (1 stages)
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| ● Beginning of flowering BBCH 61 NOW | 1170 | — |
Source: UMD phenology catalog (UMD: extension.umd.edu) About GDD₃₂ →
Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of May 24, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through Jun 9, 2026, then climate normals.