General Information
•Status in Florida: Florida-Friendly (Non-native cultivar of a native species)
•Native Habitat: Moist woods and along streams in the southeastern United States
•Native States: Not native; cultivar derived from native species in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi
•Growing Zones: USDA Zones 6–9
•Size at Maturity: 6–10 feet tall, 4–6 feet wide
•Phenology: Deciduous
•Life Cycle: Perennial
•Growth Rate: Moderate
•Growth Habit: Upright, loose, irregular branching
•Bloom Season: Spring (April–May)
•Bloom Color: Bright orange to dark red
Growth Conditions
•Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun to dappled shade
•Soil Texture: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soils
•Soil pH: Acidic
•Moisture Requirements: Moist; drought-tolerant once established
•Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low
•Keystone Plant: No
Landscape Considerations
•Recommended Landscape Uses: Specimen plant, naturalized areas, wildlife gardens, borders, foundation plantings
•Maintenance Tips: Prune after flowering to maintain shape; minimal pruning required
•Considerations: Highly fragrant flowers; attracts pollinators; may require supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods
•Hurricane Wind Resistant: No
•Erosion Control: No
•Nitrogen Fixing: No
Other Information
•Edible: No
•Pet Safe: Caution (azaleas can be toxic if ingested)
•Deer and Rabbit Resistance: No
•Historical Medicinal Uses: None documented
•Florida Native Companion Plant: Fothergilla gardenii, Itea virginica, Vaccinium spp.
•Wildlife Benefit: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
•Caterpillar Host Plant: No
•Propagation: Cuttings, layering
⸻
Special Notes on ‘Mooshatanio’ Cultivar:
•Selected for its exceptionally bright orange to dark red, honeysuckle-like flowers that are larger and more vibrant than typical Rhododendron austrinum specimens
•Named after a character in a classic Jimmy Driftwood song, adding cultural significance to its appeal
•Exhibits strong heat and humidity tolerance, making it well-suited for southeastern U.S. gardens
•Vigorous grower with a large bloom set, providing a striking display in spring     assistance with!