Rhododendron arborescens (sweet azalea)

Smooth azalea, also known as sweet azalea, is a deciduous shrub that blooms in late Spring and early Summer with fragrant flowers ranging in color from white to pink with red stamens. The glossy green leaves can also become deep red to purple in the Fall. Prefers acidic soil and grows best in sandy soils. Plant in an area protected from hot afternoon sun. Requires full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil with good drainage. Its shallow roots do not like cultivation around them. Susceptible to some insects, diseases, and other plant problems, so good cultural practices are important. This plant is known to contain substances that are poisonous to humans and problematic for pets. 

Smooth azalea is native to the eastern United States, where it is found along streams near mountains or moist forests. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are attracted to the flowers. Deer will browse it, as will rabbits. 

Photo by Tom Potterfield, licensed under Flickr, no changes.

BONAP Native Range Map. Bright green indicates native to the county, dark green indicates native to the state.