Azalea, << uh ZAYL yuh, >> is the name of a group of flowering shrubs. Azaleas grow mostly in North America and eastern Asia. Most North American azaleas are deciduous–that is, they lose their leaves every autumn. Asian species usually are evergreen and remain green all year. Azaleas can be grown in gardens. In addition, these plants also occur wild in woodlands, often in swamp areas.
Azalea blossoms range in color through all shades of pink, red, white, yellow, and purple. Their long, conspicuous stamens (stalks that contain pollen) extend beyond the petals. A long, slender capsule covered with hairlike parts holds the seeds.
Dozens of species (kinds) of azaleas grow in North America. These shallow-rooted plants live best in well-drained acid soil. They especially thrive in partial shade with filtered sunlight. Azalea plants bloom during the months of May and June.
