Swamp Azalea

A fragrant native beauty for wetland gardens! The Swamp Azalea (Rhododendron viscosum) is a stunning, deciduous native shrub that thrives in moist environments, making it perfect for wetland gardens, rain gardens, and naturalized landscapes.

Blooming from late spring into summer, this Azalea stands out with its elegantly tubular, pure white to pale pink flowers, which release a sweet, spicy-clove fragrance that fills the air. As autumn arrives, its lush green foliage transforms into brilliant shades of orange, yellow, and red, adding another layer of seasonal beauty!

Cold-hardy, pollinator-friendly, and well-adapted to wet soils, the native Swamp Azalea is an excellent choice for both natural and formal landscapes. Growing throughout USDA planting zones 4 to 9, these are highly adaptable shrubs!

Why You’ll Love Swamp Azalea

• Fragrant Summer Blooms – Exquisite white to pale pink flowers appear from late spring to mid-summer, emitting a spicy-sweet fragrance!
• Attracts Pollinators – A favorite nectar source for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
• Brilliant Fall Foliage – Lush green leaves turn fiery shades of orange, red, and yellow in autumn.
• Moisture-Loving & Rain Garden Ready – Thrives in boggy, wet soils, making it ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, and wetlands.
• Compact & Versatile – Grows 3-5 feet tall and wide, making it a great mid-sized landscape shrub. When grown in their favorite element, these variable native shrubs can get larger.

Where To Plant Swamp Azalea

As a moisture-loving native, this Azalea thrives in areas where other plants may struggle:

• Rain Gardens & Wetlands – Perfect for low-lying, damp areas where water collects.
• Pond & Stream Edges – Naturalizes beautifully along ponds, creeks, and marshy landscapes.
• Woodland & Shade Gardens – Thrives in filtered sunlight under tall trees.
• Native & Pollinator Gardens – Supports butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, providing an essential nectar source.
• Mixed Shrub Borders – Pairs well with Native Ferns, Hollies, and other native wetland plants.
• Mass Plantings & Naturalized Areas – Creates a lush, fragrant display when planted in groups.

Care & Maintenance

This hardy, moisture-loving Azalea requires little maintenance once established.

• Sunlight: Prefers partial shade to full sun; best flowering occurs in filtered light.
• Soil: Requires moist, acidic, well-draining soil; thrives in boggy and wet conditions.
• Watering: Swamp Azaleas love consistent moisture and do not tolerate dry soil for extended periods.
• Mulching: Apply a 3-4 inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed, trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
• Fertilizing: Use an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring for best growth.
• Cold Hardy & Resilient – Thrives in both cold winters and hot, humid summers.
• Deer & Rabbit Resistant – Less appealing to browsing wildlife, ensuring strong growth in natural settings.

Bring Fragrance & Natural Beauty to Your Garden with Swamp Azalea!

With its heavenly-scented blooms, brilliant fall foliage, and ability to thrive in wet conditions, the Swamp Azalea is a perfect addition to rain gardens, woodland edges, and natural landscapes. This native, easy-care shrub not only enhances your garden with seasonal beauty but also supports essential pollinators.

Order yours at Nature Hills Nursery today and enjoy the sweet fragrance and stunning seasonal display of Swamp Azalea in your landscape!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Swamp Azalea stay evergreen?
No, it is a Deciduous Azalea, meaning it loses its leaves in winter but returns with fresh growth in spring.

Can Swamp Azaleas grow in dry soil?
No, Swamp Azalea thrives in moist, even wet soils and does not tolerate extended drought.

When does it bloom?
It blooms later than most Azaleas, producing fragrant white to pale pink flowers from late spring to mid-summer.

What type of soil does it prefer?
It needs acidic, well-draining, moist to wet soil, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens and boggy areas.

Is it deer and rabbit-resistant?
Yes, deer and rabbits tend to avoid this plant due to its foliage texture and mild toxicity.