Rhododendron occidentale aka California Azalea

Rhododendron occidentale, also known as the western azalea or California azalea, is a deciduous shrub native to western North America. It is one of two deciduous Rhododendron species found in this region, the other being Rhododendron albiflorum. The western azalea can be found as far north as Lincoln and Douglas Counties in Oregon and as far south as the mountains of San Diego County. While it is typically found in the coastal ranges of western North America, it can also be found in the Cascade and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, but not beyond them. This bushy shrub can grow up to 3 meters tall and features glossy mid-green foliage that turns orange and yellow in the autumn. The leaves are deciduous, measuring 3-9 cm in length and 1-3 cm in width. The flowers of Rhododendron occidentale are fragrant and funnel-shaped, reaching widths of up to 10 cm. They are primarily white, sometimes with a pink tinge, and have yellow blotches within. These flowers bloom in early summer. There is notable diversity in the appearance of this species, with the highest genetic diversity observed along the coast near the Oregon-California border. Rhododendron occidentale is tolerant of serpentine soils, often growing in wetlands. It can be identified by its presence in southern Oregon where serpentine soils are found. It is commonly found alongside other unique plant species, such as Darlingtonia californica and Cypripedium californicum, in the serpentine barrens of the Siskiyou Mountains. Unlike some other rhododendrons, it prefers moist conditions and more sunlight. Rhododendron occidentale is a beautiful addition to the flora of western North America.