Pinxterbloom azalea
Rhododendron periclymenoides
Ericaceae · [VERIFY] · introduced
Last updated
A deciduous azalea native to the eastern United States, from Massachusetts south to North Carolina and west to Ohio, reaching 3 to 6 ft tall and 4 to 7 ft wide. Known as the pinxterbloom azalea, it produces clusters of fragrant, pink to white, tubular flowers in mid-spring, often before or with the emerging leaves. Growth rate is slow.
Spreads by stolons to form loose colonies in woodland settings. Well suited to naturalized plantings under deciduous trees. 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. Pinxterbloom azalea has passed full bloom (1620 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 | Full bloom | — | — |
| Kent / Auburn | 2,373 | Full bloom | — | — |
| Seattle / UW | 2,332 | Full bloom | — | — |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 2,295 | Full bloom | — | — |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 2,259 | Full bloom | — | — |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 2,256 | Full bloom | — | — |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 2,173 | Full bloom | — | — |
View full calendar (1 stages)
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| ● Full bloom BBCH 65 NOW | 1620 | — |
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.