Western Azalea: Beauty and Fragrance

Western azalea (Rhododendron occidentale) in full bloom in may, growing at the edge of a cypress woodland at The Cedars, Sonoma County, California. Author’s photographs

The western azalea (Rhododendron occidentale) is one of only two species of rhododendron native to the West Coast of North America. it was the inspiration for the Pacific Horticulture logo, which was designed in the 1970s by artist Wynn Hayakawa, daughter of the late Margedant Hayakawa, a founding board member and former president of Pacific Horticultural Foundation.

Western azalea (Rhododendron occidentale) is a plant of great beauty and captivating fragrance that appeals to virtually everyone who comes upon it. The large floral trusses are visually compelling by any standard: five to fifteen, sparkling white or pink, flaring trumpetshaped flowers, marked with a bright yellow to orange spot. The air around the flowers— indeed an entire canyon—can be delightfully fragranced with a sweet and spicy clove scent reminiscent of cottage pinks and carnations. The flowers emerge before the leaves, bestowing maximal effect.

The flowers are set at...