Rhododendrons and Azaleas

As far as I can determine there are three shrubs in the genus Rhododendron that are native to Pittsylvania County.

The Pinxter-flower (Rhododendron nudiflorum) now classified as R. perclymenoides is probably best known as the Wild Azalea. It is found flowering from late March thru May in woodlands, thickets, and swamps throughout our county;
The Smooth Azalea (R. arborescens) is a tall shrub, appearing almost tree-like. It flowers from late May thru early July along stream-banks and boggy areas. The only specimens that I have found were along Birch Creek in the southeastern portion of our county;
The Rosebay or Great Laurel (R. maximum) is a huge, leafy shrub that flowers from June until middle August in moist, shady woodlands, and bottom-lands. Beautiful specimens can be found in the old Country Club woods and upriver along the Dan from the Country Club in Danville.

Notes:

Posted December 25, 2004.
Bill Hathaway's careful observations of nature are sponsored by Mitchells Publications.