Do Azaleas Have a Scent?

Depending upon the variety, the azalea can have no scent, be lightly scented or be highly fragranced. Evergreen azaleas rarely have a scent, while native deciduous azaleas can be very fragrant.

Evergreen Azaleas

Evergreen azaleas do not usually have a scent. However, there are two taller growing varieties that are lightly scented. These are the Alba Magnifica and the Alphonse Anderson.

Red Hills Azaleas

The Red Hills azalea is one of the most fragrant varieties. It normally grows in the western regions of Georgia and in the coastal plains of Alabama. This variety is very tall and is covered in vividly colored blossoms.

Alabama Azaleas

Alabama azaleas also are very fragrant and grow mainly in Alabama and surrounding states. This azalea has white blossoms with yellow centers and is known for its very unique spicy, lemony scent. It also is among the deciduous azaleas.

Move Azaleas

All azaleas native to North America are deciduous, including the western azalea (Rhododendron occidentale). The dormant season before the shrubs bloom and leaf out is the best time to transplant deciduous azaleas, according to the American Rhododendron Society. Most azalea species are imported Asian evergreen varieties. Although smaller shrubs are easier to move, it is possible to transplant even full-grown azaleas. For larger plants it is difficult to remove the shrubs with an intact root ball, so cutting back some of the top-growth is helpful. If you can plan ahead, prepare your azaleas for the move a year or two ahead by root-pruning the shrubs, advises the Azalea Society. At the time of the move, trim off any dead or diseased stems.