Western Azalea

Western azalea (Rhododendron occidentale) is a deciduous broadleaf shrub in the Ericaceae family native to western North America west of the Rocky Mountains. It reaches 10 ft tall and produces white to salmon-pink flowers with orange-red buds. It blooms on previous season's wood and displays scarlet and yellow fall color.

Western azalea has 35 diseases and 21 pests documented in managed landscapes. One cultivar is available in the trade. All parts are poisonous to humans, cats, dogs, and horses. The striking fall color and bicolored flower buds distinguish it from other native azaleas.