Leaves curl up like a cigar in temperatures below approx 25 F (-3 C) to conserve moisture. Leaves unfold when temperatures warm up. Leaves are aromatic when crushed and purple tinged in winter, some older leaves turning yellow and falling off. Red stems.
USES: Groups, Mass plantings, Shrub borders, Foundation plant, Decoration, Shaded sites, Naturalized or woodland areas. Flowers attract hummingbirds and bees. Pollinator gardens. Houseplant. Especially valuable to Bumble Bees.
Botanical Name: Rhododendron minus ‘Carolinianum’ aka Rhododendron Carolinianum
Common Name: Carolina Rhododendron, Carolina Azalea, Carolina Laurel
Type: Broadleaf, evergreen Shrub
Flower Color: Fragrant dark to pale pink flowers are 1.5 in (38 mm) in clusters of 5-10 flowers 3 in (7 cm) in diameter
Flowering Season: March to May
Plant Height: 3-6 ft (91-182 cm)
Plant Spread: 3-6 ft (91-182 cm)
Plant Spacing:
Light Requirements: Light Shade, Partial Shade, Deep Shade
Water Requirements: Average, Moist, Occasionally Dry
Soil pH: <6.8
Soil Requirements: Well-drained. Average. Prefers cool, organically rich, acidic soils. Does not tolerate dense clay.
USDA Zones: 5a-8b
Other Info: Windy sites should be avoided
