Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum)
A true favorite of the Smoky Mountains, the Flame Azalea lights up the landscape with its vibrant orange and red blooms from June through July. These wild beauties can often be spotted about one-third of the way up mountain slopes, where they thrive in filtered sunlight.

Though technically a shrub, the Flame Azalea sometimes grows tall and tree-like as it reaches for the sun. Typically, it reaches 4 to 8 feet in height and spreads 8 to 10 feet wide, growing quickly from seed. After flowering, you can often spot seed pods forming—an indication of its ongoing life cycle.

Be mindful: Flame Azaleas are toxic if ingested and susceptible to diseases like canker, rust spots, and root rot. They also face pressure from deer browsing and human impact. To help preserve this wild treasure, please do not take cuttings or disturb plants in their natural habitat.

If you’re lucky enough to encounter these fiery blooms during a hike, pause and enjoy the bright splash of color that only the Flame Azalea can bring to the Smoky Mountains.